Daily Archives: November 4, 2025

Holiday at the Ranch is December 6

10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. at Stow House

Save-the-date for the Goleta Valley Historical Society’s cherished Holiday at the Ranch on Saturday, December 6! Head over to the Stow House (304 N. Los Carneros Rd) from 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. to meet Santa and the rein-goats, enjoy live seasonal music, make children’s crafts, check out local vendors, and tour the decorated Stow House. Tractor rides will be available as well as food trucks on site. Tickets go on sale November 10 (Children $10/Adults $20) and you can schedule your time to meet Santa. Go to https://goletahistory.org/holiday-at-the-ranch/ for more info.

Find out more about the Stow House and their other events at www.GoletaHistory.org.


2025 Holiday at the Ranch Flyer


2024 Holiday at the Ranch Photo Collage

 

Keep Your FOG out of the Drain

You may already be thinking about all that food you will be making this holiday season, but we want to remind you to keep fats, oils and greases out of the kitchen drain and our wastewater system. These items can lead to blockages in sewer lines or pollution to our creeks, wetlands and the ocean.

Fats, oils, and greases are a byproduct of cooking and are found in such things as meat fats, cooking oil, lard, and shortening, butter and margarine. When grease is washed down the drain, it sticks to the inside of sewer pipes (both on your property and in the streets.) Over time, it builds up and can block an entire pipe.

Garbage disposals do not keep grease out of the pipes, they only shred it into smaller pieces. Commercial additives, including detergents that claim to dissolve grease, may pass it down the line and cause problems away from the source. But the results of a grease-blocked sewer pipe can be sewage overflows in your home or neighborhood resulting in expensive and unpleasant cleanups; possible exposure with disease-causing organisms; or an increase in maintenance costs.

How to dispose of your fats, oils, and greases (FOG):

  • Pour FOG into a covered disposable container—such as glass, plastic or a sturdy plastic bag. Store it in the freezer and then put it in the trash after it has hardened.
  • Use paper towels to wipe greasy dishes before washing. Put the paper towels in the trash.
  • Use sink strainers to catch food waste.
  • Put food scraps in a compost bin or in the trash.
  • FOG waste should only be put in the trash.

Thanks to Goleta West Sanitary District for this info. Learn more at https://goletawest.org/customer-information/environmental-programs.

Foodbank Launches Holiday Turkey Drive

The Foodbank of Santa Barbara County has launched its 2025 Holiday Turkey Drive, calling on the community to help collect 3,000 turkeys and chickens so every local family can enjoy a holiday meal this season.

This year’s effort comes as thousands of residents face uncertainty due to the ongoing federal shutdown, which may suspend Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) funding, known in California as CalFresh, for November. More than 55,000 Santa Barbara County residents rely on SNAP each month, and over half are children or older adults.

According to the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities SNAP helps millions of low-wage workers in California afford food while covering high housing and healthcare costs. Without it, many families will turn to the Foodbank and its partners for emergency support.

In October, the Foodbank provided emergency food for 100 families at Vandenberg Space Force Base and held food pickups for TSA employees affected by the shutdown. The organization continues to assist military families, federal workers, and anyone experiencing hardship.

Community members can contribute to the Turkey Drive in two ways:

  • Make a Virtual Donation: The Foodbank’s Virtual Food Drive allows donors to make the biggest impact. Every $1 provides $5 worth of food, helping the Foodbank purchase exactly what local families need most this holiday season. Donations can be made at https://donate.foodbanksbc.org/campaign/737714/donate.
  • Drop Off a Turkey or Chicken: Fresh or frozen birds can be dropped off Monday–Friday, 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., through November 17, at either warehouse:
    • South County: 80 Coromar Drive, Goleta
    • North County: 490 Foster Road, Santa Maria

Both donation methods directly support local families in need.

The Foodbank of Santa Barbara County provides nourishment and nutrition education to more than one in four county residents through over 300 community programs. Learn more at www.foodbanksbc.org.

About the Foodbank of Santa Barbara County

The Foodbank of Santa Barbara County transforms hunger into health by providing nutritious food, education, and resources to residents throughout the county. We serve 1 in 3 Santa Barbara County neighbors, distribute over 12 million pounds of food yearly, and work with more than 200 partners and programs to build food security and resilience across Santa Barbara County. For more information, visit www.FoodbankSBC.org.

Goleta’s Finest 2025 Award Recipients Announced

75th Annual Community Awards Gala to be Held on December 5 at The Ritz-Carlton Bacara

The Santa Barbara South Coast Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce the 2025 Goleta’s Finest Award Recipients. Goleta’s Finest celebrates 75 years of honoring extraordinary individuals who have significantly contributed to the Goleta community.

“For 75 years, Goleta’s Finest has celebrated the people who make this community special. Those whose generosity, courage, and creativity strengthen the heart of Goleta,” said Kristen Miller, President & CEO of the Santa Barbara South Coast Chamber of Commerce. “This year’s honorees reflect the very best of who we are; neighbors who give selflessly, people who lead with vision and remind us that community is built through compassion and service. We are proud to honor their legacies and the light they bring to the Goleta Valley.”

The 2025 honorees will be recognized at a formal celebration on December 5, from 5:30 to 9:00 PM at the elegant Ritz-Carlton Bacara. The evening will feature dinner followed by an awards ceremony.

The 2025 Goleta’s Finest Award Recipients are:

  • Man & Woman of the Year – Ron and Patricia Caird
  • Lifetime Achievement Award – Anant Yardi
  • Educator of the Year – Sarah Ashton
  • Education Impact Award – Dos Pueblos Mock Trial Team
  • Student of the Year – Kennedy Fick
  • Student Leader of the Year – Reese Large
  • Non-Profit of the Year – The Friendship Paddle & Keiki Paddle
  • Health Impact Award – Arie DeJong
  • Volunteer of the Year – Jeff Zamora
  • Non-Profit Leader of the Year – Ernesto Paredes

Tickets are available for $175 per person, with advance purchase required at SBSCChamber.com.

Green Room: Are You Ready for the Rainy Season?

The City of Goleta Environmental Services Division would like to share some tips to help protect our watersheds during the rainy season. As winter approaches, let’s prevent water pollution and keep our storm drains and creeks clean! Winter rains produce stormwater runoff which is rain that does not soak into the ground and flows over land and other surfaces. Stormwater runoff can carry trash and pollutants into storm drains, which flow directly to creeks, rivers, and the ocean without any treatment. The trash and chemicals in the runoff pose a threat to wildlife and water quality.

Remember “only rain down the drain.”

If you observe stormwater concerns such as trash, illegal dumping, or any fluid with a visible sheen, odor, or color entering the storm drain within the City of Goleta, Report water pollution within the City of Goleta to environmentalservices@cityofgoleta.org. Hazardous Materials Spills should be reported to 911. Sanitary sewer (wastewater) spills should be reported to the Goleta Sanitary District (805-967-4519) or Goleta West Sanitary District (805-968-2617) immediately.

Here are some great ways to keep storm drains clear of trash and pollutants:

  • Keep trash and recycling cans tightly covered to prevent litter from being blown away during storms.
  • Take your car to a commercial car wash prior to the first rains.
  • Do not drain or pour any automotive fluid onto the street or into a storm drain.
  • Sweep dirt out of curbs and into landscaping to prevent it from entering storm drains.
  • Adjust your sprinklers to prevent over-watering and prevent water from draining onto paved surfaces such as driveways and sidewalks.
  • Do not apply pesticides or fertilizers before a rain event or within:
  • 5 feet of pavement
  • 25 feet of a storm drain
  • 50 feet of a water body
  • Compost leaves and yard clippings.
  • Always pick up after your pet.

For more information on how you can help protect our watersheds, check out our Homeowner’s Guide in English and Spanish. 

Santa Barbara County’s New Emergency Information System

The City of Goleta is sharing this information from the County of Santa Barbara Office of Emergency Management.

Santa Barbara County has a new emergency zones map that provides precise, location-specific guidance during emergencies to help eliminate confusion and enable quick, informed decision-making.

Built with input from Santa Barbara County first responders, this free tool found on ReadySBC.org/emergency offers details on current conditions and what actions to take.

Key features include 24/7 availability, compatibility with all devices, key information available in Spanish, and coordination with the county’s existing ReadySBC Alert system. Whether you’re dealing with wildfire threats, flood conditions, or other emergency situations, you’ll have access to official, up-to-date information from emergency professionals actively managing the incident.

Take a few minutes to visit ReadySBC.org/emergency and bookmark the page, explore your neighborhood’s emergency zone, and sign up for ReadySBC Alerts to ensure you receive comprehensive emergency information through multiple channels.

Learn more by watching this PSA video.

Stay Safe This Winter: Generator Safety During Power Outages

While Goleta is known for its mild climate, winter storms can still bring strong winds, heavy rain, and occasional power outages. Having a generator ready can help keep your lights on, your food cold, and your home comfortable. However, it’s just as important to know how to use generators safely to prevent carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning, fires, and electrical hazards.

The City of Goleta encourages all residents to prepare ahead of time and review generator safety tips before the next storm. Whether you rely on a generator for short-term outages or as a backup power source during emergencies, following safe practices can protect your family, pets, and neighbors.

Generator Safety Tips

  • Always use generators outdoors. Operate your generator and store fuel at least 20 feet away from windows, doors, and attached garages. Never run a generator inside your home, garage, or under carports. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can become deadly within minutes.
  • Install carbon monoxide detectors. Place working CO alarms on every level of your home and check batteries regularly – especially during the winter when doors and windows are closed for warmth.
  • Keep generators dry and stable. Goleta’s winter rain can create slick and flooded surfaces. Operate your generator on a dry, elevated, and well-ventilated area. Touching a wet generator or cord can cause electrical shock.
  • Use heavy-duty cords. Connect appliances with outdoor-rated, heavy-duty extension cords that can handle the power load.
  • Cool before refueling. Let the generator cool completely before adding gasoline or propane. Spilled fuel on a hot surface can ignite.
  • Follow manufacturer instructions. Review your generator’s manual to ensure you are operating it safely and efficiently.

Prepare Before the Storm

Goleta residents are encouraged to keep an emergency supply kit with food, water, flashlights, blankets, and batteries. Make sure outdoor drains are clear of debris to prevent flooding, and secure loose outdoor items before a storm hits.

Taking a few minutes to prepare can make a big difference in how you weather a power outage safely and comfortably.

For more information on winter weather safety and generator use, visit Ready.gov – Winter Weather.

You can also explore local preparedness resources and upcoming safety workshops on the City’s Emergency Preparedness webpage: City of Goleta – Emergency Preparedness.

Stay warm, stay safe, and stay prepared, Goleta!

Family, Fun and Farm Animals at Coffee & Community

Check Out Photo Album from Final Event of the Year

For some it was the opportunity to pet a farm animal, for others it was a visit to the Goleta Valley Library Bookvan or the enticement of a Dia de los Muertos inspired treat, but for everyone who attended, it was a great way to spend a Sunday morning at a beautiful place connecting with each other and the City. The Goleta Valley Historical Society was the G.O.A.T (Greatest of All Time) and opened its Sundays at the Ranch event an hour earlier for the final Coffee & Community / Café y Comunidad event of the year on November 2, 2025, at the historic Stow House Ranch Yard. The gathering was held in District 1 and led by Mayor Paula Perotte and Councilmember Luz Reyes-Martín. Check out photos from the event at https://bit.ly/47y4BkQ.

Councilmember Reyes-Martín said, “Thank you to everyone who joined our Coffee & Community gathering in District 1. It was wonderful to see neighbors connecting, City staff engaging in conversation, and residents asking thoughtful questions in a welcoming and casual setting. Events like these strengthen our sense of community and help build bridges between residents, their elected representatives and City staff.”

Mayor Paula Perotte said, “The best part of these Coffee & Community events is hearing from our residents. I loved seeing familiar faces and meeting some new community members as well. We learn so much from meeting with you all at these informal gatherings.”

While most of the event was casual, there was an opportunity for Mayor Perotte and Councilmember Reyes-Martín to welcome community members and a period where the public could ask questions. Topics ranged from how to report an issue to the City, to upcoming events and projects. Residents also had ample time to ask questions individually.

A special thanks to Santa Barbara County Firefighters from Station 14 located next to the Stow House for attending. Thanks also to City staff for being there, including Assistant City Manager Jaime Valdez, Public Works Director Nina Buelna, Planning and Environmental Review Director Peter Imhof, Neighborhood Services Director JoAnne Plummer and the City’s Community Relations team Kelly Hoover, Jaime Shaw and Marcos Martinez.

The City holds coffee events such as this one throughout the year in each of its four districts. To find out what district you are in, plug your address into our interactive Know Your District Map at https://tinyurl.com/GoletaInteractiveMap.   

Photos from the event:

Pictured top right – Councilmember Luz Reyes-Martín welcoming to attendees to Coffee & Community on November 2, 2025


Mayor Paula Perotte and Councilmember Luz Reyes-Martín (District 1) talking to community members


Santa Barbara County Fire Captain Tyson Perkins at Stow House Ranch Yard


Goats being fed at Stow House Ranch Yard


Dia de los Muertos crafts at Coffee & Community event


Dia de los Muertos bread and pastries at Coffee & Community event

Provide Input on Unmet Transit Needs

Annual listening sessions to take place in the cities of Santa Barbara, Buellton and Santa Maria through December. The focus is on how bus systems, dial-a-ride, and paratransit services can better serve residents in Santa Barbara County.

The Santa Barbara County Association of Governments (SBCAG) and the City of Santa Maria will host a series of annual listening sessions through December on unmet transit needs. Listening sessions will also take place in the city of Santa Barbara and Buellton.  Public participation is encouraged to share input on bus systems, dial-a-ride, and paratransit services.

Those unable to attend one of the four listening sessions can take an online comment form available in English and Spanish until Friday, December 15, 2024. The public can also submit comments in writing to SBCAG at 260 North San Antonio Road, Suite B, Santa Barbara, CA 93110, or by email to info@sbcag.org. 

Comments provided at any of the listening sessions, on the online comment form, or in writing are shared with local decision makers, transit agencies, and the California Department of Transportation to help influence options for transit services and projects.

In February 2026, the Santa Barbara County Transit Advisory Committee will receive a summary of public input. By April 2026, a draft report will be presented to the SBCAG Board of Directors for their consideration.

Santa Barbara

4 p.m. to 6 p.m., December 2, 2025
Visit in person or virtually any time during the two-hour listening session
Santa Barbara County Association of Governments (SBCAG) Wisteria Conference Room – 260 North San Antonio Road, Santa Barbara, CA 93110.

The public can also join virtually by Zoom with the webinar ID of 84941151277, passcode: 751074. Details on how to participate virtually will also be published on the SBCAG website at www.sbcag.org.
Accessible accommodations and Spanish language translation is available by request.  Contact SBCAG by November 28, 2025, at (805) 961-8900 or info@sbcag.org.  

Buellton

4 p.m. to 6 p.m., December 3, 2025
Visit in person any time during the two-hour listening session
City of Buellton Council Chambers – 107 W Hwy 246, Buellton, CA 93427.

Accessible accommodations and Spanish language translation is available by request.  Contact SBCAG by November 28, 2025, at (805) 961-8900 or info@sbcag.org.

Santa Maria

Two sessions: 4 p.m. and 5:30 p.m., December 4, 2025 
Santa Maria Public Library Shephard Hall, 1st Floor 421 S. McClelland Street, Santa Maria, CA 93454. 

Accessible accommodations and Spanish and Mixteco translation are accessible upon request to the City of Santa Maria at (805) 928-5624 by December 1, 2025.  

Those not able to attend one of the listening sessions are still encouraged to submit their comments by December 15, 2025 through any of these methods:

  • Email to info@sbcag.org
  • U.S. Postal Service to 260 North San Antonio Road, Suite B, Santa Barbara, CA 93110.
  • Online Comment Form

SBCAG will gather comments on transit needs throughout Santa Barbara County, as outlined under Section 99238.5 of the Public Utilities Code.