Meet Crisis Intervention Co-Response Teams from 9am – 11am at Camino Real Marketplace

Community members in Goleta are in for a treat as the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office, in partnership with Behavioral Wellness, has organized a special edition of Coffee with a Cop. This FREE event on Wednesday, March 6, 2024, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at the Goleta Marketplace Starbucks, aims to shed light on the innovative Mental Health Co-Response Teams.

The role of law enforcement in mental health crises has evolved over the years, recognizing the need for a compassionate and specialized response. Mental Health Co-Response Teams bridge the gap between law enforcement and mental health services, facilitating a more effective and empathetic approach to crisis situations. The creation of these Co-Response Teams is a significant step forward in providing comprehensive care for individuals in crisis situations. 

Attendees will have the unique opportunity to meet the members of these Co-Response Teams and learn more about their work. This event serves as a platform for community members to gain insight into the challenges faced by law enforcement officers and mental health professionals when responding to mental health crises.

Make sure you mark your calendars for THIS Wednesday, March 6, 2024, and make your way on over to the Goleta Marketplace Starbucks between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. Join the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office, Behavioral Wellness, and fellow community members for a cup of coffee and an enriching conversation about the innovative work of the Mental Health Co-Response Teams.

Close to 40 Residents Gathered at Brandon School

Getting time to connect in an informal setting and ask questions is what our Coffee and Community events are all about. The last one was held on February 3, 2024, at Brandon School. It was also a great opportunity to celebrate the City’s 22^nd birthday (February 2, 2024).  

This was the fourth Coffee and Community event. The gatherings are held in different parts of the City in hopes of reaching different neighborhoods to address their particular questions and concerns. The attendees enjoyed coffee and birthday cake. Children who attended with their parents participated in the celebration by making birthday cards for the City. Mayor Paula Perotte, Councilmember Kyle Richards, City Manager Robert Nisbet and a group of City staff from a variety of departments were in attendance as were Santa Barbara County Supervisors Laura Capps and Joan Hartmann. Spanish interpretation was provided.

Mayor Paula Perotte said, “Our staff and I were so pleased for this opportunity to learn from and respond to Goleta residents’ comments and questions regarding our city’s operations and strategies.” 

Councilmember Kyle Richards said, “I am always glad to hear from our residents regarding their concerns about the City and their neighborhoods. Saturday’s ‘Coffee & Community’ at Brandon School was a great opportunity to engage with neighbors and share information about how our Council and staff are working on their behalf.”

During the event, City staff answered questions about housing, road conditions, parks and open space, upcoming projects and other topics of interest to the neighborhood.

A big thanks to Brandon Principal Sheryl Miller for helping set up the event and make sure it ran smoothly, and to Anna’s Bakery in Goleta for making delicious birthday cake for all to enjoy. 

Thanks to everyone who attended and participated.

Pictured above: Mayor Perotte and Councilmember Kyle Richards with City Staff

Child drawing a birthday card for the City

Mayor Paula Perotte speaking to the audience