Are you looking for a rewarding career? Consider an opportunity with the City of Goleta. We are accepting applications for the following:
Learn more about each position and how to apply here. Check back regularly for new listings.
Enjoy an August that is filled with community connection and brimming with books! Programming continues offsite at parks and open spaces throughout Goleta, as well as in various rooms at the Goleta Community Center (5679 Hollister Avenue). For the full calendar of events, please visit goletavalleylibrary.org/calendar.
Writers’ Workshop at Goleta Community Center
Saturday, 8/2, 12:30-2 pm
The GVL Writers’ Workshop is open to adults and teens who write in any genre, fiction or non-fiction. The workshop meets on the first Saturday of each month to share work, exchange feedback, offer mutual support and discuss the tools of the trade.
Senior Happy Hour at Goleta Community Center
Thursday, 8/7, 2-3:30 pm
On the first Thursday of every month we get together to relax, laugh, socialize and create something beautiful. This month we will be making laminated luggage tags. Supplies are provided, but you are welcome to bring a photo to add to yours.
Friday Morning Storytimes are on the Move!
Fridays in August – check calendar for location
Bookvan & Dam Dinner
Saturday, 8/16, 4-7 pm at Lake Los Carneros Dam
Plan your visit by checking the Bookvan calendar for stops in Isla Vista and Goleta. Plus, for the first time, the Bookvan is going to be part of the Annual Goleta Dam Dinner! Stop by to say hello and register for a library card. The Dam Dinner is a free family-friendly event with live music, face painting, food trucks, and more!
Stay up-to-date on what’s happening at Goleta Valley Library by visiting our website at www.GoletaValleyLibrary.org.
Goleta Valley Library (GVL) Express is open and ready to serve you. You can find GVL Express at its temporary home at 6500 Hollister Avenue Suite 105 while the main library at 500 N. Fairview undergoes construction. The doors opened on July 9, 2025.
Here is an update from our City Librarian Elizabeth Saucedo:
Library staff are so happy to get back to some of our beloved duties such as answering reference questions, organizing our shelves, and helping patrons to find their next read.
While the new space is much smaller, staff have received positive feedback that it feels good to be back in the library, with the advantages of being able to browse the stacks and enjoy our same hours of operation to come and visit. We expect to be in this temporary space for the next two years and look forward to making the most of new opportunities to do outreach, pilot unique programs off-site, and develop new partnerships throughout the community.
Library staff heartily thank our teammates on the Bookvan for doing such an incredible job handling the high volume of holds and increased usage while we were closed. We would also like to extend gratitude to our library patrons for their patience, adaptability, and understanding while we made this huge change. We look forward to seeing you soon at GVL Express!
What to Know When Visiting GVL Express
Parking
There is a total of 20 parking spaces designated for Library patrons. These are marked with the word “Library” in each space. There are also two handicapped parking spaces for those with accessibility needs. Additionally, there is ample street parking on Los Carneros Way as well as overflow parking at City Hall right next door. Please note that any cars parked in spaces marked for other tenants may be subject to towing.
Metered Visits
The occupancy of the suite is a total of 35 individuals, so during peak hours we may need to meter how many patrons are inside at one time. If this occurs, please expect a brief wait before entering, and the possibility of a “short and sweet” visit inside GVL Express.
Our Library team is prepared to efficiently meet our patrons’ needs while maintaining public safety. We appreciate your patience as we transition into this new space together.
Hours and Returns
The hours at GVL Express remain the same as those at Goleta Valley Library:
Returns will be accepted inside GVL Express during open hours. Two exterior book drops are located at the front of Goleta City Hall (130 Cremona Drive) and the entrance to the Goleta Community Center (5679 Hollister Avenue) for 24/7 returns. Materials are retrieved and checked in daily Tuesday-Sunday. Returns are also accepted at the Bookvan and at any Black Gold library.
Computers
Four computers are available for public use. Patrons may still access up to two hours per day of total computer time. Sessions will be 30 minutes each to allow computer access to as many patrons as possible. Reservations are available upon request.
Patrons may access the internet, copying, printing, word processing, email, and more. For the comfort and security of all patrons in the smaller space, privacy screens will be in place during all computer sessions.
For more information, visit our webpage here: www.goletavalleylibrary.org/about/gvl-express.
Fourteen residents of Goleta have successfully completed the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training program, equipping them with the skills and confidence to assist our community in times of disaster and emergency.
The CERT training, hosted by the City of Goleta Emergency Services Division, spanned eight weeks and covered key topics such as basic fire suppression, light search and rescue, disaster medical operations, and team organization. The program concluded with a hands-on disaster simulation exercise, allowing participants to put their new skills into action. This is the 24th graduation class for the City of Goleta and the first class since 2019.
“We’re incredibly proud of our CERT graduates,” said Jason Levy, Emergency Services Coordinator for the City of Goleta. “They are now part of a dedicated network of volunteers who play a vital role in keeping our community resilient and prepared.”
The Community Emergency Response Team program educates individuals about disaster preparedness and trains them in basic response skills. Supported by FEMA and administered locally, CERT empowers everyday citizens to make a difference when it matters most.
For more information about CERT, please contact City of Goleta Emergency Services Division at (805) 961-7571 or ESD.Training@cityofgoleta.gov. Stay tuned for upcoming training sessions. Once new sessions are confirmed, the City will announce them and post the details on the City’s training sign-up page: https://tinyurl.com/4usesakt.
Graduates will be invited to participate in ongoing drills, community outreach, and emergency response activities. Their involvement enhances the safety and readiness of neighborhoods across Goleta.
The City of Goleta extends its sincere appreciation to the CERT Collaborative of Santa Barbara County, the Santa Barbara County Fire Department, the City of Santa Barbara Office of Emergency Services, the City of Carpinteria, and UC Santa Barbara’s Emergency Management and Mission Continuity team for their valuable support of this training course.
Pictures from the CERT Class
Goleta Education Foundation’s Annual Lemon Run is back for its 10th Anniversary Celebration on September 21 at beautiful Lake Los Carneros! Look forward to a day of fun, fitness, and community spirit.
With competitive 10K Grand Prix (8:00 a.m.) and 5K Jr. Grand Prix (9:30 a.m.) races, and 1K Family Fun Run (10:30 a.m.), there is something for everyone. It’s a perfect event for competitive runners and first-timers alike. There are great prizes and goodies from local businesses, fabulous food, and fun family-friendly activities. Come join the Goleta Education Foundation and support our schools, families, and community in the Good Land.
Participants will begin as a rolling start for each event. This course will wind the 5K and 10K runners through the many trails and picturesque scenery around Lake Los Carneros, while the 1K will take place in front of the historic Stow House. Strollers are allowed for the 1K Family Fun Run and families are welcome to run together.
Don’t wait, sign-up today at https://runsignup.com/Race/CA/Goleta/LemonRun.
Early bib pick-up will be on Saturday, September 20, from 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. at Deckers Brand Showcase (6601 Hollister Avenue). Late registration and packet pick-up will be on Sunday, September 21, beginning at 7:00 a.m. Registration closes promptly 15 minutes before each race.
Parking will be at the Stow House (304 N. Los Carneros Road) and in the lot adjacent to Stow House. Don’t forget your Lemon Run swag! Pre-order your Race T-shirts by September 5 to ensure your sizing.
Proceeds from the Lemon Run directly fund GEF’s Educator Grants for Innovation and Professional Development, benefiting Goleta Union School District’s nine elementary schools. Your participation allows GEF to expand its grants, empowering teachers to elevate their classrooms and reach diverse learners.
Since its rebranding in 2016, the Lemon Run has embodied GEF’s mission to inspire investment in Goleta’s schools, addressing inequities and enhancing education for all students. Founded in 1989, GEF continues to champion opportunities that create a brighter future for our community. Learn more about GEF and its grants here.
Let’s run together to support education in our community!
Mark your calendars for the Goleta Lemon Festival on Saturday, September 27 and Sunday, September 28 at Girsh Park! For more than 30 years, this popular annual event attracts 40,000 regional visitors, residents, community leaders, non-profits, and elected officials, embodying the essence of Goleta.
You can expect wonderful food, a fantastic family atmosphere, and a variety of entertainment and activities. This weekend also includes the Goleta Fall Classic Car (on September 27), and the ever-popular ‘Safety Street.’ There are also memorable pie-eating contests, and arts and crafts vendors.
The Kids Zone is a favorite at the Lemon Festival. It offers activities for children of all ages, including mini golf, inflatable bubbles, obstacle courses, and more. All-inclusive activity wristbands are available to purchase here.
Food vendors, vendor booth applications, and car show registrations are now open! For food and vendor booths go to LemonFestival.com/Vendors , and for the Classic Car Show go to LemonFestival.com/Goleta-Fall-Classic.
The Lemon Festival is put on by the Santa Barbara South Coast Chamber of Commerce. Learn more here: LemonFestival.com.
Goleta Valley Historical Society’s Music at the Ranch continues through August 19. Head over to Rancho La Patera & Stow House (304 N. Los Carneros Road) Tuesday evenings from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. to catch the last few FREE concerts. Bring your own blanket or lawn chairs for an outdoor concert (schedule below). Purchase food from the onsite food truck (AR Catering or Elubia’s Kitchen) or pack a picnic dinner.
Remaining Schedule:
Please do not bring pets, service animals are allowed. Limited parking is also available.
For more info go to https://goletahistory.org/music-at-the-ranch.
Photos from Music at the Ranch events earlier this summer.
The City of Goleta partners with MarBorg on a number of services and wants to make sure you are aware of them.
MarBorg Industries is pleased to announce the re-launch of textile recovery in our community. Residents are now able to drop off clean, lightly worn textiles for FREE at MarBorg’s Goleta Recycling Center (20 David Love Place). Drop off hours are Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m., and certain Saturdays 8:00 a.m. – 1:00p.m.
In partnership with the City of Goleta, City of Santa Barbara and County of Santa Barbara, textiles will be transported to Homeboy Threads, a certified social enterprise in Los Angeles. Homeboy Threads offers reuse and recycling services for apparel and textiles. As part of Homeboy Industries, the world’s pre-eminent gang rehabilitation and re-entry program, Homeboy Threads proudly trains and employs people committed to transforming their lives after incarceration.
Acceptable Items
All items must be clean, dry and not contaminated. Items should be in lightly worn condition unless otherwise stated.
Unacceptable Items
The City of Goleta amended the franchise agreement for solid waste handling services with MarBorg Industries, which includes updates to existing bulky item pickup services. Both single-family homes and multi-family residences can enjoy FREE bulky item collections throughout the year. Goleta single-family residences are entitled to four (4) free bulky waste pickups (5 items maximum per cleanup) each year. Goleta multi-family residences are entitled to collections matching the number of dwelling units in the complex annually, at no extra cost. Each dwelling unit’s annual collection accommodates 5 bulky items or boxes. All cleanups must be scheduled in advance.
If you pay for individual trash service, you are eligible for these cleanups. If you pay for trash service through an association or complex, bulky waste cleanups may be scheduled by each tenant or the property manager.
Residents in the cities of Goleta and Santa Barbara, and in the unincorporated areas of Santa Barbara County, can recycle your hazardous waste for FREE at the Community Hazardous Waste Collection Center located on the UCSB Campus at Mesa Road, Building 565). It’s open Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. and Sundays 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. (closed for major holidays and rain). Residents get up to 15 gallons (net liquid) or 125 pounds per trip and are required to show proof of residency using a driver’s license, utility bill or vehicle registration. There is a fee for business waste – call head for more info and to schedule an appointment.
Residential household hazardous waste that is accepted includes: paints, stains, paint thinner, solvents, automotive fluids and filters, pesticides, fertilizer, cleaners, aerosols, glues, corrosives, fluorescent lighting, kitchen grease, smoke alarms, and more.
Items NOT accepted include: needles, controlled substances, electronics, and materials that are radioactive, biological, or explosive in nature.
MarBorg Industries is pleased to offer Goleta residents* up to two free Earth Machine compost bins per household. The Earth Machine generates compost aerobically – no worms required! The Earth Machine compost bin is durable, easy to assemble, and only requires a bit of outdoor space. Every Earth Machine comes with assembly / replacement instructions and comprehensive 20 page “Home Composting Handbook.”
Specifications
*Compost bins for apartments or condos must be ordered by the property owner or Management Company.
Learn more about MarBorg and the services above by going to https://marborg.com or calling 805-963-1852.
The Santa Barbara County Association of Governments approved $4.3 million in Measure A funding recently to support bicycle, pedestrian and Safe Routes to School projects in Carpinteria, Santa Barbara, Goleta, and Isla Vista.
The funding was awarded through the sixth cycle of Measure A South Coast Bicycle and Pedestrian Program and the South Coast Safe Routes to School Program.
“This funding shows how Measure A is working exactly as voters intended — delivering real improvements where people live, work, and go to school,” said SBCAG Board Chair Randy Rowse, mayor of Santa Barbara. “These programs help us build bike and pedestrian projects and improve safety near schools. It’s good for kids, families, and the entire South Coast.”
Of the $4.3 million total, about $2.3 million will go into multipurpose paths, crosswalks, and sidewalks, while nearly $2 million will help keep kids safe getting to and from school over the next few years.
Projects approved for funding include:
Additionally, Measure A funding will support several initiatives focused on community engagement and safety:
“The strong response we received this cycle shows the need for investments in bike, pedestrian, and safe routes to school projects across our South Coast communities,” said Jacky Mata, senior transportation planner for SBCAG. “We received 17 applications requesting nearly $8.8 million, far exceeding the $4.3 million available. Each proposal was carefully evaluated through a competitive scoring process, and the projects recommended reflect both high community priorities and the best opportunities to improve safety and connectivity.”
Measure A, approved by Santa Barbara County voters in 2008, is a local sales tax measure dedicated to transportation improvements countywide.
For more information about the program, the public can contact SBCAG by email at info@sbcag.org, by phone at (805) 600-4477, or visit our website at www.sbcag.org.
The Los Angeles – San Diego – San Luis Obispo (LOSSAN) Rail Corridor Agency, which manages the Amtrak® Pacific Surfliner® service, announced that train service north of Goleta will be suspended from August 1 through August 16, 2025, due to the La Cañada Honda Bridge Replacement Project. Alternative bus transportation will be provided to assist passengers.
The 16-day closure will enable the replacement and reconstruction of the La Cañada Honda Bridge, a 127-year-old steel viaduct over Honda Creek in Santa Barbara County. The bridge is a critical piece of infrastructure on the 351-mile LOSSAN Rail Corridor, which supports passenger rail and freight service through Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo Counties. The Project is led by the Union Pacific Railroad (UPRR) and funded by LOSSAN through grants from the State of California with additional support from UPRR. The bridge replacement improves long-term service reliability for rail passengers and strengthens operational efficiency. It will result in reduced travel times, increased ridership and service reliability, and lower GHG emissions by removing existing speed restrictions and allowing for future service expansion.
To enable the replacement of the bridge, the following service adjustments will be in place from August 1 through August 16, 2025:
Visit the Pacific Surfliner website for additional information.
