The next time you drive by or visit Goleta City Hall (130 Cremona Drive), be sure and check out a beautiful new addition! Thanks to our Parks and Recreation Commissioner Deborah Williams there is now a glass Monarch Butterfly named Rosalynn hanging outside. Ms. Williams purchased the Butterly for sentimental reasons and donated it to the City. The Goleta City Council formally had an opportunity to hear her story and thank her for this generous gift at the June 3, 2025, meeting. You can view it here under City Manager / Staff Report.

For many years Ms. Williams had the opportunity to work with President Jimmy Carter and First Lady Rosalynn Carter. One of Rosalynn Carter’s greatest passions was advocating for the protection and celebration of Monarch Butterflies. In 2024 during a trip to the Rosalynn Smith Carter Childhood Garden in Plains, Georgia, Ms. Williams saw a magnificent collection of monarch glass butterflies called “Dancing Monarchs.” The butterflies were created by noted artist Peter Hazel, to commemorate Rosalynn Carter’s 95th birthday.

Commissioner Williams purchased one of these butterflies with the desire to share with the City she loves – Goleta. “May she forever bring delight and inspiration to all of us,” said Deborah Williams.

Thank you, Commissioner Williams, for this gracious gift, which we will cherish.

Pictured: Commissioner Deborah Williams in front of City Hall with the glass Monarch Butterfly behind her.