Author Archives: Jaime Shaw

Fourth of July Safety

As we approach the Fourth of July, we want to remind our community members that fireworks are illegal to possess and use in the City of Goleta and throughout Santa Barbara County. (The exception is in the cities of Lompoc, Santa Maria, and Guadalupe, which allow only designated “Safe and Sane” fireworks to be purchased and used within the city limits.)  Watch this video message from Goleta Mayor Paula Perotte, Fire Chief Mark Hartwig, and Chief of Police Services, Lt. Rich Brittingham. It’s also available in Spanish from the City’s Spanish Engagement Specialist.

The use of fireworks poses an extreme fire danger in our community. Deputies will be actively enforcing laws pertaining to the possession or use of illegal fireworks. Depending on the type and amount of fireworks, violators could be subject to citation or arrest.

Residents can report firework violations in Sheriff’s jurisdictions by calling the non-emergency dispatch center at 805-683-2724, or 9-1-1 in an emergency situation.

Besides the fire danger they pose, illegal fireworks and fireworks in general also are frightening to many pets. Santa Barbara County Animal Services (SBCAS) reminds pet owners of the following:

  • Make sure your dog is wearing a current license tag and update its microchip information.
  • Keep pets inside.
  • Leave the TV or radio on to distract pets.
  • Walk your dog before the fireworks start.
  • Do not bring your pet to a fireworks display.
  • If your dog or cat is especially noise sensitive, consider having someone stay home with them, taking them to a boarding facility, or discuss sedatives with your veterinarian.

We wish you a safe and wonderful Independence Day spent with family and friends. Thank you for doing your part to keep Goleta safe this Fourth of July.

High Fire Season Declared

Now that it is High Fire Season, SBC Fire will suspend all burn permits issued for residential burning and hazard reduction, while simultaneously increasing the deployment of vital resources to combat vegetation fires.

During the High Fire Season, it is crucial for residents, workers, and visitors in Santa Barbara County to exercise heightened awareness and prioritize fire safety. SBC Fire underscores the following key measures to ensure public safety: why

  • Maintain Vegetation Clearance: Individuals are advised to maintain proper vegetation clearance around structures to minimize fire risks.

  • Review and become acquainted with the “Ready! Set! Go!” wildfire action plan, which outlines crucial steps for preparedness and response in the event of a wildfire. For more details, please visit sbcfire.com.

  • Wildfire smoke and ash contain very small particles called particulate matter, which harm the lungs and heart. The best protection against wildfire smoke is to stay indoors as much as possible, ideally in a well-sealed “clean air room” with an air purifier. The Air Pollution Control District (APCD) provides instructions to create a “clean air room” on their website. APCD’s website also provides countywide hourly air quality conditions. People are also encouraged to sign up for Air Quality Alerts issued during wildfires.

SBC Fire urges all community members to remain proactive and diligent in implementing fire safety practices during this High Fire Season. By working together, we can ensure the safety and well-being of Santa Barbara County and its residents.

The public is also encouraged to sign up for emergency alerts at ReadySBC.org.

Pictured: Firefighters battling the Ward Fire in November 2022

2024 Goleta Graduates

The City of Goleta is proud to extend its heartfelt congratulations to all #GoletaGraduates. Whether you are graduating from college, high school, junior high, or elementary school, your achievements are a testament to your hard work and dedication.

We want to shine a spotlight on two Dos Pueblos High School graduates in particular, Jessica Avila-Ruiz from the City’s Public Engagement Commission (PEC) and Grace Hu from the City’s Parks and Recreation Commission. Jessica and Grace have not only excelled academically but have also demonstrated exceptional dedication to serving our community as Youth Commissioners.

“What I like best about my commission is how thoughtful and kind my other commissioners are,” said Jessica Avila-Ruiz, a first-term PEC Commissioner.

Grace Hu, serving her second term on the Parks and Recreation Commission said “I loved engaging with the grant process that support local organizations, and learning more about the diverse initiatives happening in our community.”

Both Jessica and Grace want to use this opportunity to encourage other Goleta youth to get involved in city government. “It’s really important for you to always stay prepared, prioritize generosity, and never let yourself feel overwhelmed with stress,” said Jessica. “I know it’s said often” Grace added, “but getting involved really can help in developing a better understanding of the local community and is a great way to connect with other community members.”

Jessica and Grace were both highly involved in other community projects and non-profits. Jessica is a frequent volunteer for Beautify Goleta events, Foodbank of Santa Barbara County food drives, and other community festivals, while also being an active member of the Dos Pueblos High School Cheer Program and Leadership Class. Grace has a leadership role with the Dos Pueblos Engineering Academy, is heavily involved with music, singing, and running the local student led nonprofit YouthMuze with other teen musicians.

The future looks bright for both commissioners. Jessica has committed to the University of California at Santa Barbara and Grace will be attending New York University Shanghai this fall. Jessica intends to pursue a major in marketing, highlighting her aspirations to find a career that ignites her passion and allows her to connect with people while embracing opportunities for versatility and growth. Grace wants to build upon her passion for working with others and will pursue a business or law degree in the future. We wish them the best of luck in their future endeavors.

To all our #GoletaGraduates, we celebrate your accomplishments! This milestone marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in your life. Congratulations to the Class of 2024!

The City is always looking for outstanding youth to join our boards and commissions. If you are interested, please visit https://www.cityofgoleta.org/boardscommissions.

 
Pictured: Jessica Avila-Ruiz (left) and Grace Hu (right)

Fiesta Ranchera June 20

One of Goleta’s favorite events is almost here. Fiesta Ranchera is on Thursday, June 20 from 5:00 – 10:00 p.m. at the beautiful Rancho La Patera & Stow House (304 N. Los Carneros Road). This treasured event is a chance to experience Fiesta in Goleta and is a collaboration between Old Spanish Days and the Goleta Valley Historical Society. This year is even more special as Old Spanish Days is celebrating 100 years! Come see performances by the 2024 Spirit of Fiesta, Junior Spirit and musical entertainment by classical guitarist Tony Ybarra and Area 51. There will also be delicious food and beverages from local restaurants, wineries, and breweries. This is a 21 and older event. Tickets are limited and must be purchased in advance. Go to https://oldspanishdays.ticketsauce.com/e/fiesta-ranchera-3.   

You can also experience Fiesta in Goleta at the June 18 Goleta City Council meeting. The Council will issue a proclamation declaring June 20, 2024, as “Fiesta Ranchera Day.” Council will also give Certificates of Recognition to the Spirit of Fiesta, Georgie Taupin, and the Junior Spirit of Fiesta, Aleenah Soriano, and watch them perform. We hope you will join us in person, watch on the City’s website or on Goleta TV Channel 19. Viva La Goleta!

Community Garden, New Playground and Bike Path Open

Watch Highlight Video of Ribbon Cutting at Armitos Park

The City’s first Community Garden, new playground and extended bike path are officially open at Armitos Park in Old Town. The sun popped out just in time for a ribbon cutting ceremony held May 29, 2024, at 3:30 p.m. More than 75 people attended the celebratory event, many of them proud renters of one of the 50 garden plots. Watch a highlight reel of the event here. You can also view photos here.

Mayor Perotte, a gardener herself, kicked off the ceremony by highlighting seven benefits of having a community garden. She said, “They beautify the landscape, lead to a healthier lifestyle, encourage people to be outdoors and active, help clean up the environment, build strong communities, provide learning opportunities and relieve stress.” She added, “When people take a garden plot, they foster a sense of ownership and begin to feel more personally invested in their community. It’s a great place to learn, find a mentor, even a new life-long friend. Also, gardening is an invitation to step away from your to do list, slow down, connect with nature and each other.”

District 2 Councilmember James Kyriaco spoke next and applauded the many people who were part of making this dream a reality. “So many different hands contributed to your being able to get your hands dirty today in our new community garden. So many different generations of people, both young and old, are going to enjoy this new equipment, new upgraded facility, new community space, new Old Town backyard.”

A great deal of thought and detail went into the design of the park which was outlined by Parks and Recreation Manager JoAnne Plummer. She said, “The center area where we are gathered here today is strategically designed to look like a flower. There is a pizza oven in the picnic area. Even the bike racks are garden themed. The new and expanded playground includes swings and specialty items like the sandbox, an accessible sand table and musical instruments. There are so many great details, but my favorite part of this park is the beautiful butterfly-shaped raised flower bed filled with flowering plants designed to attract pollinators to the garden.”

Senior Project Manager Teresa Lopes spoke on the significance of the new extended multi-purpose path. She said, “This portion is an important piece of the overall San Jose Creek Multi-Purpose Path Project. Not only does this completed segment provide a connection between Armitos Park to Jonny D. Wallis Neighborhood Park, but the path also provides an integral connection for the Old Town community to eventually travel to the north and south on a safe, accessible multi-use path.”

The City wants to express its heartfelt appreciation to the neighboring businesses and residences for their patience and support through the duration of bringing this project to fruition.

To check out all the exciting changes for yourself, go to Armitos Park located at the end of Armitos Drive near the S. Kellogg Avenue and Armitos Avenue intersection.

For more information on the park, please visit www.CityofGoleta.org/ArmitosPark or contact Parks and Recreation Manager JoAnne Plummer at jplummer@cityofgoleta.org.

Background: The City acquired the 1.5-acre space from the County Housing Authority in 2005 to develop as a future park. Armitos Park opened in 2008. In 2015, a community garden was identified as a need through a Recreation Needs Assessment. Armitos Park was chosen as the location due to condensed housing and lack of gardening locations in Old Town. While attempts were made to secure grant funding, the project was ultimately funded through Park Development Impact Fees.

Pictured above: Parks and Recreation Manager JoAnne Plummer with the butterfly flower bed at Armitos Park

Below: photos from the event (more available in album here)


Celebratory Ribbon Cutting


Proud community garden plot renters


New playground (aerial view)


Group walking on the new multi-purpose path

We Love Our Public Works Team

Our Public Works team and partner agencies in Goleta definitely feel appreciated after seeing the GREAT turnout at our Public Works Week Celebration event held May 22! A couple hundred people, including many families, joined us at the Camino Real Marketplace from 4-6pm for games, giveaways, information, and the popular touch-a-truck. A big thank you to MarBorg, Goleta Water District, Goleta Sanitary District and Goleta West Sanitary District for participating and bringing their trucks.

In addition to climbing on vehicles, kids could paint fire hydrants, go fishing, and more. There were also City information tables with staff from various departments providing information to community members on current and upcoming projects and programs.

We also want to thank Anna’s Bakery and Los Agaves for providing free coffee or soda to attendees who showed a City Live • Work • Play sticker.

This event was part of National Public Works Week (May 19-25) and was a way to honor our incredible Goleta Public Works Department for all they do for our community. The Public Works Department also received a proclamation at the May 21 City Council meeting.

Our Public Works Department is responsible for a wide range of services and projects. The City of Goleta owns over 100 parcels; many of the properties are parks and open spaces with a total area of approximately 515 acres. Below is a list of assets that Public Works manages:

  • 85 Center-lane Miles of Roadway
  • Over 20 Bridges
  • 35 Traffic Signals and 16 other Traffic Devices
  • 1,400 LED Streetlights
  • 16 Parks and 14 Open Spaces
  • 14,000 City Trees (approximately 8,000 Street Trees and 6,000 Park Trees)
  • 12 Creeks
  • 2 Miles of Coastline
  • Storm Drain Infrastructure including storm drainpipes, manholes, and drainage inlets

Public Works also maintains roadway medians and traffic control signs in addition to 17.4 million square feet of pavement and approximately 110 linear miles of curb, gutter, and sidewalks.

This year has been an especially busy time for Goleta Public Works with construction underway on the largest capital improvement project in the City’s history, Project Connect.

A big thank you to Goleta Public Works!       


Public Works staff receiving their proclamation from the city Council on May 21, 2024

Pictured below: Photos from the May 22 Public Works Week Event




Save-the-Date for the Dam Dinner

One of Goleta’s favorite traditions is coming up soon. Mark your calendars for the Annual Dam Dinner on Saturday, August 17, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at the Lake Los Carneros Dam!

The Dam Dinner is a great way to mark the end of summer. Bring your friends and meet new ones. Picnic tables and chairs are set up along the path with beautiful views of the lake and mountains. Bring a picnic dinner or purchase food from an onsite food truck. All this while listening to live music from the Salt Martians.

This is a family-friendly event. Kids will love the face-painters and Kona Ice truck.

Stay tuned for more details.

This event can’t happen without the help of our partners. Thank you to the Goleta Valley Historical Society, MarBorg, and Big Hammer Lures.

We hope to see you on August 17 for the best Dam Dinner you have ever had!

Free Family Weekend at the Train Depot

In celebration of the history, technology and adventure of railroading, the Rotary Club of Goleta will host Family Weekend at the Goleta Depot, June 15 & 16 from noon – 4:00 p.m.

The free event, which is open to all students and their families, will offer a variety of activities such as a bounce house, provided by Luna’s Jumps; lawn games; and tours of the museum that include the freight office and depot master quarters.

Train rides and hand-car rides will be offered at no cost, taking visitors on a nostalgic journey through Goleta’s history. Families also can pack a lunch and eat the designated picnic areas.

“Family Weekend is a fantastic opportunity for families to connect and create lasting memories,” said Becca Vail, museum administrator. “We are grateful to the Rotary Club of Goleta for their support and look forward to welcoming children and their families for a fun-filled weekend at the Goleta Depot.”

The Goleta Depot is open noon – 4:00 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays; last train tickets are sold at 3:30 p.m. For more, visit www.goletadepot.org.

 

June Observances

In addition to LGBTQ+ Pride Month, there are other holidays and cultural observances we want to highlight this month. Read about the City raising Pride Flags in Goleta here.

Caribbean American Heritage Month: Caribbean American Heritage Month is a time to celebrate and honor the contributions of Caribbean Americans to the United States. This community encompasses individuals with roots in various Caribbean countries, including but not limited to Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, Haiti, Barbados, and the Dominican Republic. A proclamation making the resolution official was signed by President George W. Bush in June 2006.

Native American Citizenship Day: Signed into law on June 2, 1924 but officially celebrated every June 15th. It was on this day in 1924 that the Indian Citizenship Act by Congress granted citizenship to all American Indians born in the U.S. Native American Citizenship Day reminds us that indigenous peoples have been an integral part of our nation’s fabric since time immemorial. Let’s appreciate the vibrant traditions, languages, art, and wisdom that have shaped our society.

Juneteenth, June 19: Juneteenth marks the day when federal troops arrived in Galveston, Texas in 1865 to take control of the state and ensure that all enslaved people be freed. The troops’ arrival came a full two and a half years after the signing of the Emancipation Proclamation. Juneteenth honors the end to slavery in the United States and is considered the longest-running African American holiday.

Join us in learning, acknowledging, and honoring various cultural and awareness observances each month, creating a more inclusive and welcoming Goleta for all.

Summer Reading Program Begins June 15

Earn Prizes and Attend Special Events at the Goleta & Santa Ynez Valley Libraries

The Summer Reading Program begins on June 15th at the Goleta and Santa Ynez Valley Libraries! This year’s program – Adventure Begins at Your Library – is open to children, teens, and adults, and will run through July 27th. To participate, all you need to do is stop by the Goleta Valley Library, Bookvan, Buellton Library, or Solvang Library to pick up your Reading Log. A big thank you to our teen volunteers who help make this event happen.

Children’s Librarian Kaeley Christensen said, “I am so excited to share this program with our community this summer. We have some great events planned and really fantastic prizes donated by our generous local businesses! We have something for everyone this year, with prizes for all ages. This is one of the most important programs we do all year because it helps prevent the “summer slide”, keeps kids motivated to read, and sets up our local students for success during the months in between school years.”

Our local businesses are an integral part of helping to motivate readers by donating prizes that participants can earn at different milestones based on the number of books they read. Participants in the Youth category (grades K-6) earn prizes for every five books or 300 minutes they read, and participants in the Teen category (grades 7-12) earn prizes for every book they read. Similarly, participants in the Adult category (ages 18+) receive one prize drawing ticket for each book they read, which they can enter in the library’s weekly prize drawings. Families with little ones under the age of 5 can participate in our 1,000 Books before Kindergarten program, which is year-round, and will have additional incentives during the Summer Reading Program. Reading in all formats is welcome, including print books, graphic novels, eBooks, and audiobooks. Access eBooks and audiobooks for free with your library card.

The Summer Reading Program also includes amazing special events for all ages! Each week, programs and special performances will be held across our three library locations. We have some returning acts, like Magician Shawn McMaster, and some new faces, including a Hula show, presented by Hula Anyone. We also have some fun craft activities, scavenger hunts, and everyone’s favorite, the Stuffed Animal Sleepover to wrap up the program in July! Check out our calendar here and below for a full list of scheduled events.

Last year’s Summer Reading Program saw a lot of engagement: 2,540 community members attended 26 events, 1,918 children and teens registered to participate, and adults read 1,060 books. Let’s make this year even better!