Author Archives: Jaime Shaw

Goleta Valley Library to Close for Relocation April 1st

Sharing of Collection Materials will Pause Friday, March 7th

The City of Goleta would like to remind the community that the Goleta Valley Library will close its location at 500 N. Fairview Avenue beginning April 1st in order to start the process of moving to its temporary site. It’s a big job to move a library, and the relocation period will occur throughout April and May with an anticipated opening at our temporary home in early June. During this time, staff will be packing the essential supplies, materials, and more that will enable operations and services to continue offsite while the 500 N. Fairview facility is under construction for 18-24 months as part of the Goleta Valley Library Building, Safety, and ADA Improvement Project.

To support the library in its packing process, measures will be put into place to get as many materials home as possible prior to the library’s last day of service at 500 N. Fairview Avenue on Sunday, March 30th. Patrons will notice changes beginning on Friday, March 7th. To get ready for this transition, check out the FAQs below:

Will I still be able to place holds through the online catalog?

Yes. Although Goleta Valley Library’s collection will not be visible in the catalog after March 7th, holds can still be placed on titles owned by any of the other Black Gold libraries.

Where can I pick up my holds?

If you placed a hold before March 7th for pickup at Goleta Valley Library, you can pick it up there as soon as you receive a notice that it is ready.

If you place a hold on March 7th or after, you will not have the option to pick it up at Goleta Valley Library. You will need to select another Black Gold library as a pickup location, including the Bookvan.

Where can I find out where the Bookvan is?

The schedule of stops is available on the library website: www.GoletaValleyLibrary.org/Services/Bookvan. Please check the schedule to plan your visit, as the schedule rotates and parking access varies by location.

Will the Bookvan be adding any Goleta stops to its route?

To provide a nearby holds pickup option during the transition and closure, we are in the process of establishing stops twice a week across the street from Goleta Valley Library at the Goleta Union School District Office located at 401 N. Fairview Avenue. This schedule will be shared as soon as it is available.

Can I still check out materials in person?

Yes, library hours of operation will remain the same through Sunday, March 30th. Patrons can visit the library in person to check out materials through that date.

What should I do with my checkouts in April after the library closes?

Book drops will remain open until further notice. At some point in the moving process, the book drops will be relocated, and we will provide as much notice as possible when this occurs.

Will my items be due while the library is moving?

Due dates will be extended until the library is open at its temporary location for all Goleta Valley Library patrons, Goleta Valley Library materials, and Black Gold materials checked out from Goleta Valley Library prior to the closure.

Will the e-Library still be available?

Absolutely. The e-Library will remain available 24/7 and new titles will be added regularly.

Will the Zip Books program continue during this time?

Yes, we are excited to continue running the Zip Books program through June, or for as long as the grant funds last. Learn more and place your request at GoletaValleyLibrary.org/ZipBooks.

Will there be programming while the library is moving?

Yes! A variety of offsite programs for all ages will be provided during the transition period. A calendar of events will be shared later this month so that the community can continue to gather and engage as Goleta Valley Library relocates to its temporary home.

Where is the library moving?

The City is finalizing negotiations for a lease agreement at 6500 Hollister Avenue. Once the lease is complete, the library will move forward with plans to open for service from this location in early June prior to the start of the Summer Reading Program.

Stay informed about the library project and services at GoletaValleyLibrary.org. Thank you for your continued support and understanding during this transition. We look forward to continuing to serve our community throughout each phase of this project!

Ellwood Mesa Sperling Preserve Celebrates 20 Years – Join the Volunteer Effort!

Special Community Event May 17; Saturday Morning Volunteer Opportunities

The Ellwood Mesa Sperling Preserve celebrates a significant milestone this year—its 20th anniversary! This is a time to honor the community members who came together to protect Ellwood Mesa and ensure its preservation for future generations. To celebrate, we invite the community to reconnect with this beloved open space and take an active role in its care. Join us for a series of Volunteer Service Days led by the Bucket Brigade, where our community can help restore trails, support habitat conservation, and shape the future of Ellwood Mesa through hands-on stewardship.

This is also your chance to help the western monarch butterfly, whose populations have declined so drastically that they are likely to be listed as a threatened species under the federal Endangered Species Act. The City of Goleta’s Monarch Butterfly Habitat Management Plan proactively identifies actions to restore and protect our iconic monarch butterfly, and you can help bring that vision to life. Spend a day outdoors, meet great people in your community, and make a real difference for the monarchs and the beautiful landscape of Ellwood Mesa.

Volunteer days are underway. This is a fantastic opportunity for community members to contribute to the care and enhancement of Ellwood while enjoying a day of teamwork and civic pride. Whether you’re a longtime resident or new to our community, your hands and hearts are welcome. No experience necessary. Sign up to volunteer here.

Later this spring, join us in celebrating the Ellwood Mesa Sperling Preserve’s 20th Anniversary with a special community event on May 17, co-sponsored by the City of Goleta. This exciting day will bring together neighbors, nature lovers, and longtime stewards of Ellwood Mesa to honor its past and shape its future.

The celebration kicks off at 11:00 a.m. with a special honoring ceremony recognizing the dedicated individuals who helped save Ellwood from development. From 12:00–4:00 p.m. enjoy a variety of activities, including guided nature walks, a scenic fun run, a bike ride, a guided bird walk, and kid-friendly activities — all set against the breathtaking backdrop of Ellwood Mesa’s coastal bluffs.

Stay tuned for more details on the 20th Anniversary—it’s free! RSVP to let us know you are coming at ellwoodfriends.org.

Whether you’re reconnecting with this cherished open space or experiencing it for the first time, there’s something for everyone.

Sign up today and join us in celebrating Ellwood’s legacy and bright future. Let’s work together to keep Ellwood vibrant and thriving for many years to come.

Goleta Community State of the City Countdown

Join us April 8 at the Goleta Community Center

Details are being finalized for Goleta’s biggest night of the year. We hope you will put it on your calendar NOW and join us on Tuesday, April 8, for the Goleta Community State of the City at the Goleta Community Center (5679 Hollister Avenue) from 5:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. The the Dos Pueblos High School Jazz Band and musician Andrew Manos will be returning to perform at the event. The Jazz Band will be in the gazebo in front of the Goleta Community Center starting at 4:30 p.m. to play for you as you arrive and before the event starts. Andrew Manos will sing and play the keyboard during the mingling portion of the evening and as part of the main program. In addition, Teen Star Finalist and Goleta resident Tyler McCutchen will be performing to kick off the main program which begins at 6:00 p.m.

There are many reasons why Goleta’s Community State of the City is a must attend event. If you love Goleta, here is your chance to learn about our achievements, challenges and have your questions answered in the popular Q&A session at the end of the event. Simultaneous Spanish interpretation will be available and light refreshments provided. Watch this video invite with Mayor Paula Perotte or this invite in Spanish with Councilmember Luz Reyes-Martin (District 2).

The schedule for the evening includes:

  • 4:30 – 5:30 p.m. – Dos Pueblos High School Jazz Band performs in the gazebo outside of the Goleta Community Center.
  • 5:00 – 6:00 p.m. – Come check out our City information tables to learn about current and upcoming projects and programs. Mingle informally with the Goleta City Council, stakeholders, City staff, and fellow Goletans. Submit a question to be answered during the Q&A portion of the program, take photos, and enjoy light refreshments.
  • Program begins promptly at 6:00 p.m.:
    • Teen Star Finalist Tyler McCutchen performs
    • Mayor Perotte gives the 2025 State of the City Address
    • City Manager Robert Nisbet provides an update on the City’s Finances
    • Q&A session with Mayor Perotte and Department Directors – come with questions!

Additional parking at the Goleta Community Center is available behind the building if there are no spots remaining in the front and side parking areas.

We hope you can join us for this important City event. Bring your family and friends!


Dos Pueblos High School Jazz Band performing at the 2024 Community State of the City


Musician Andrew Manos playing at a previous Community State of the City


Teen Star Finalist Tyler McCutchen

Black History Month

Join the City of Goleta in recognizing Black History Month. This is a time set aside to honor the contributions and legacy of Black Americans across U.S. history and society — from activists and civil rights pioneers to leaders in industry, politics, science, and culture.

On Tuesday, February 4th, the Goleta City Council issued a proclamation recognizing February as Black History Month in the City of Goleta. The 2025 national theme is “African Americans and Labor.” With this proclamation, the City Council honors the legacy of African Americans, acknowledges the integral role of Black labor in building our nation, and commits to a future of inclusivity, justice, and shared prosperity. View the proclamation at https://tinyurl.com/u7phedd7.

To learn more about the contributions Black Americans have made throughout our history, make sure you check out the Goleta Valley Library in-person book display at 500 N. Fairview or the online catalog throughout the month of February.

Community organizations are also hosting events across Santa Barbara County in February to recognize Black History Month.  Check out a list of activities here.


Council presenting the Black History Month Proclamation at the February 4, 2025, Council meeting. Pictured left-to-right: Mayor Pro Tempore Stuart Kasdin (District 4), Mayor Paula Perotte, CommUnify Director of Community Services Kemba Lawrence, National Low Income Housing Coalition Board Member Loraine Brown, Santa Barbara Travel Bureau Travel Advisor Dianne Travis-Teague, Juneteenth SB Co-Founder Jordan Killebrew, Councilmember Luz Reyes-Martín (District 1), Councilmember Jennifer Smith (District 3) and Councilmember James Kyriaco (District 2)

 

SEE Vision Care Ribbon Cutting

Congratulations to SEE Vision Care for its new clinic in the heart of Old Town Goleta (295 Pine Avenue)! Mayor Paula Perotte attended the ribbon cutting ceremony organized by the Santa Barbara South Coast Chamber on January 29. SEE Vision Care is a part of SEE International, a non-profit humanitarian organization originally founded in Santa Barbara in 1974, that has now expanded to over 54 countries.

SEE International provides free sight-restoring surgeries and essential eye care to people who would otherwise not have access to these services. The organization also offers youth screenings at schools with the Greater Goleta Santa Barbara Lions Club, eyecare screenings, comprehensive eye exams, and prescription glasses at no cost to the patient. Any necessary follow-up care, including surgeries, is based on eligibility requirements.

For more information about the services SEE offers and to find out if you qualify, please visit: https://www.seeintl.org/see-vision-care/ or call (805) 770-1376.

Welcome SEE Vision Care to Goleta and thank you for helping create visibly brighter futures for people in our community.

 

 

Opportunity to Serve on Design Review Board

Application Deadline Extended to February 20, 2025

Do you have an eye for design and a desire to help shape the future of Goleta? If so, you are encouraged to apply to fill one of three vacancies on the City of Goleta’s Design Review Board.

The City is specifically looking for:

  • Two At-Large Members (must be a Goleta resident)
  • One Licensed Landscape Professional (landscape architect); qualified applicants are not required to reside within City limits for this vacancy

The Design Review Board is a seven-member body that encourages development using the best professional design practices to enhance the visual aesthetics of the community and prevent poor quality of design. The Design Review Board (DRB) advises the City Council, Planning Commission, and staff.  

Members are appointed to a three-year term. The DRB meets the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month at 3:00 p.m. Members are compensated $75 per meeting.

Apply online by February 20 at 5:00 p.m. at www.cityofgoleta.org/boardscommissions. For additional information, please email cityclerkgroup@cityofgoleta.org.

New State Daylighting Law

The City of Goleta would like to help educate the community about California’s new Daylighting law, Assembly Bill 413, which went into effect January 1, 2025.

The new law says that (please refer to graphic below):

  • Drivers cannot park along the right side of the road, within 20 feet of a crosswalk, whether it’s marked or unmarked.
  • Drivers cannot park along the right side of the road, within 15 feet of a crosswalk with a curb extension.
  • The law only applies to stopping, standing, or parking a vehicle within 20 feet of the vehicle approach side of any marked or unmarked crosswalk or within 15 feet of any crosswalk with a curb extension.
  • Applies only to vehicles parked along the right side of the roadway as you approach intersections.

This law is intended to:

  • Improve visibility at intersections.
  • Make it easier for drivers to see pedestrians, skateboarders and other road users.
  • Reduce accidents and save lives.

The law allows for violators to be issued a parking citation for violating the Daylighting Law. The Goleta Police Department is aware street parking in local neighborhoods can be difficult, and parking is limited.

This law was written to address incidents where pedestrians were struck and seriously injured or killed while crossing the street.  According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, California’s pedestrian fatality rate was 25% higher than the national average. Pedestrian fatalities increased from 1,013 in 2020 to 1,108 in 2021. There are 43 other states that have implemented similar laws that have resulted in successfully reducing traffic collisions involving pedestrians. 

The City of Goleta contracts with the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office for law enforcement services.

Save-the-Date for Goleta Community State of the City

April 8 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. at the Goleta Community Center

Mark your calendar for the City’s biggest night of the year! The Goleta Community State of the City is taking place on Tuesday, April 8 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. at the Goleta Community Center (5679 Hollister Avenue). This event, in its eighth year, is your chance to hear about the City’s accomplishments and challenges, learn about the City’s finances, and ask questions. Simultaneous Spanish interpretation will be available and light refreshments provided.

Attendees are encouraged to arrive at 5:00 p.m. to check out the City information tables. At the tables, City staff are available to talk about upcoming projects and programs. This is also an opportunity to mingle with the City Council, City staff, stakeholders and fellow Goletans. Enjoy light refreshments, music, and take photos to remember the night. At 6:00 p.m. the main program begins. Mayor Perotte will give her State of the City Address followed by a Financial Update from Goleta City Manager Robert Nisbet. The program ends with the popular Q&A session featuring City of Goleta Department Directors.

We hope you can join us for this important City event. Please tell your family and friends.

San Jose Creek Multipurpose Path Project Receives Federal Funding

Funding Will Allow City to Move Forward with Construction of Long-Awaited Project

The City of Goleta is the recipient of $11.16 million dollars in funding via the Reconnecting Communities Pilot (RCP) Grant Program sponsored by the U.S. Department of Transportation. A press conference was held by Congressman Salud Carbajal in January – watch it here. This grant funding allows Goleta to move forward with the construction of the San Jose Creek Multipurpose Path Project which when completed will connect the community in a way that did not exist previously.

Mayor Paula Perotte said, “We are overjoyed that the City of Goleta was awarded this significant grant which allows us to carry out the long-awaited vision of connecting the northern Goleta neighborhoods to Old Town and the beach. Thank you to the Goleta staff who never gave up on this project, who took the initiative to apply and secure this grant and to the U.S. Department of Transportation for seeing the value of this impactful project.”

The $11.16 million in federal dollars in addition to the $15.29 million already received from the Active Transportation Program (ATP) grant will help to close the funding gap needed for project construction and will lighten the burden on local funding. However, as a condition of the grant the City will provide up to 20 percent of the overall construction cost through a combination of sources including various development impact fees and future bond proceeds.

This project will build a separated and dedicated multipurpose underpass through US 101, the Union Pacific railroad tracks, and State Route 217 to eliminate a barrier and connect residents located in Old Town Goleta to education, employment, housing, services, and amenities in the north and south. The project will create a new Class I bicycle path and pedestrian amenities and improve pedestrian and cyclist safety along adjacent high-volume arterials and freeway underpasses with inconsistent infrastructure. The project will also create a new connection for the surrounding street network, offering residents, for the first time, direct access to the grocery stores, health care services, green spaces, schools, employment, and recreational opportunities located in the north of the city, directly across the highway.

Congressman Salud Carbajal said, “I’m proud to see the Reconnecting Communities program, created through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, delivering this substantial award to Goleta for this multipurpose path project – part of more than $1 billion this landmark law has invested so far in our region. This award will improve Goleta’s sense of community and connectivity – while keeping Central Coast pedestrians safe.” 

The City of Goleta is one of 25 California cities to receive a combined total of $258 million for transportation infrastructure upgrades from three programs that were part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, including the RCP grant. The RCP focuses on improving access to daily needs such as jobs, education, health care, food, nature, and recreation.

Learn more about the Reconnecting Communities Pilot Program at https://www.transportation.gov/reconnecting.  

For more information on the San Jose Creek Multipurpose Path Project click here.

Pictured above: Congressman Carbajal and Goleta City Council Walking on the San Jose Creek Multipurpose Path at Jonny D. Wallis Neighborhood Park


Congressman Carbajal Speaking at Press Conference


Congressman Carbajal with Goleta City Council and staff 

MTD Proposed Rate Change

Take Survey to Provide Input

Santa Barbara MTD is in the middle of a  public outreach process seeking input from the public on a proposed adjustment to MTD’s bus fare structure. MTD’s fares have been unchanged for the past 16 years, but rising operational costs have necessitated an update to keep bus service sustainable and dependable in the future.

MTD hosted several open house style public meetings in January, including one in Goleta, to discuss details and take input from community members.

The outreach and survey period will run through mid-February, and the public is invited to visit https://sbmtd.gov/farechange to review the proposed alternatives and to complete a short survey. The survey is available in English and Spanish, and is also available in paper form at the Transit Center and onboard MTD buses.

According to MTD:

Operating costs have increased by more than 10 percent since Fiscal Year 2019, and fares only account for roughly 20 percent of MTD’s annual operating budget. The District’s major revenue sources are fares, Federal Transit Administration (FTA) operating assistance, and sales tax. With the FTA classifying Santa Barbara as a large, urbanized area (UZA) due to the population growth confirmed by the 2020 Census, MTD is no longer eligible for FTA Small Transit Intensive Cities (STIC) funding of approximately $3.0 million per year, thus eliminating that funding source. In the absence of sufficient funding, MTD would be forced to make cuts to bus service.

In order to generate additional revenue of approximately $1.5 million to help fill that gap, MTD has put together two proposed alternative scenarios, shown in the table below. Alternative 1 consists of a $2.25 cash fare with moderately discounted passes, while Alternative 2 consists of a $2.50 cash fare with a greater discount on passes.

Any fare change would go into effect with MTD’s annual service changes on August 18, 2025.