Author Archives: Jaime Shaw

Trees in Old Town

The 25 trees along Hollister Avenue in Old Town Goleta are flourishing! These trees were planted last year as part of the Arbor Week celebrations in 2023. The City received approval from the Public Tree Advisory Commission to plant three species of trees: Ginkgo Biloba, Arbutus Marina “Madrone”, and the Chinese Pistache.

These trees were planted along Hollister Avenue, stretching from Fairview Avenue down to the Highway 217 overpass. Goleta Public Works is responsible for watering the trees, managing weeds, and maintaining planters, while West Coast Arborist is responsible for tree pruning care.

As these 25 new trees continue to grow, they will become an integral part of the landscape, and their presence will serve as a reminder of the community’s commitment to environmental sustainability. They are a part of the 14,000 publicly owned trees that line our streets and parks managed by the Goleta Public Works team.

With the launch of the City’s new Old Town Open For Business campaign, this is the perfect time to take a stroll down Hollister Avenue and support your favorite local shop while checking out the new trees.

Right-Size Your Waste Service

A Sustainable Solution for Goleta Residents

Amidst a solid waste rate increase, now is the perfect time for Goleta residents to reevaluate their waste management services and explore opportunities for waste reduction. With sustainability at the forefront, it’s essential to optimize waste services to meet actual needs while minimizing environmental impact and saving money.

One common mistake many residents make is sizing their waste service for bulky items and one-off loads, resulting in unnecessary expenses, and wasted resources. Fortunately, Goleta offers a solution for single family residents with four free bulky item pickups annually, allowing residents to dispose of large items without the need for oversized waste containers. Multi-family residents now have access to one free bulky item pickup per dwelling unit on the property per year.

By downsizing waste containers, residents can reap several benefits. Not only does it save money on monthly bills, but it also encourages waste reduction and minimizes the footprint of waste storage on their property. Smaller containers are more efficient, taking up less space and promoting responsible waste management practices.

To assist residents in right-sizing their waste service, here are some simple instructions:

  • Visual Assessments: Take a moment to assess your waste container regularly. Is it consistently empty, full, or overflowing? Adjust your service accordingly based on your actual waste volume.
  • Multiple Assessments: Waste generation can fluctuate over time, so don’t make changes based on a single observation. Monitor your waste output for a few weeks before making significant service adjustments.

Need Help? If you’re unsure about the right waste service for your needs, don’t hesitate to reach out to the City of Goleta for assistance. Our dedicated team is here to help you make informed decisions, call 805-961-7575 or email EnvironmentalServices@CityofGoleta.org.

Need to Update Services? Contact MarBorg Industries at 805-963-1852, our trusted waste management partner, to update your waste service and ensure it aligns with your needs and preferences.

By following these simple steps, Goleta residents can play a vital role in promoting waste reduction, saving money, and creating a more sustainable community. Let’s work together to make a positive impact on our environment and future generations.

Remember, when it comes to waste management, the key is to right-size your service for maximum efficiency and minimal environmental impact. Let’s make every effort to reduce waste and build a greener, more sustainable Goleta.

Learn more at www.cityofgoleta.org/WasteFreeGoleta or email us today at EnvironmentalServices@cityofgoleta.org.

Embrace Plastic Free July

Goleta’s Commitment to a Sustainable Future

During Plastic Free July, the City of Goleta is excited to highlight various events and initiatives aimed at reducing plastic waste and promoting sustainable living. Plastic Free July is a global movement that encourages individuals to reduce their single-use plastic consumption for a month, with the goal of adopting these habits long-term.

One of the key events this month is the 2nd Annual Plastic Free July Expo, which took place on June 27 in Santa Barbara. This event, hosted by local nonprofits Community Environmental Council (CEC) and Santa Barbara Channel Keeper (SBCK), was an excellent opportunity for residents to learn about practical ways to reduce plastic usage and discover innovative products and services that support a plastic-free lifestyle. There were a variety of exhibits at the Expo showcasing eco- friendly alternatives to single-use plastics. Attendees also had the chance to connect with like-minded individuals and organizations passionate about environmental sustainability.

Don’t worry if you missed the expo, you can sign up for a “The Plastic Crisis: Science and Solutions” Zoom webinar on July 16 from 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. The webinar, featuring CEC and Plastic Free Future founders Alejandra Warren (CEC’s 2024 Santa Barbara Earth Day Festival Environmental Hero) and Dr. Matt Warren, will share the science behind the plastic crisis and discuss solutions that can lead us to a healthier, cleaner, and plastic-free future. Learn more and register: https://cec.pub/plasticfreefuture. 

Another exciting event is the Beautify Goleta Plastic Free July event coming up on July 20, 2024, at Berkeley Park, featuring Mission Refill as the Spotlight Captain and the Kellogg Elementary Ocean Guardians as our Spotlight Volunteers. These young environmental stewards from Kellogg Elementary have been leading the way in promoting reusable utensils and other sustainable practices, setting an inspiring example for us all.

The City of Goleta is committed to reducing single-use plastics through its Plastic Free Goleta initiative. This program offers valuable content and resources for residents, including practical tips on how to minimize plastic use. By visiting the City’s Plastic Free Goleta page at www.CityofGoleta.org/PlasticFreeGoleta, you can learn about the local efforts to combat plastic pollution and find out how you can contribute to a more sustainable community.

The City’s own plastic policy has been in effect just over one year – it went into effect on June 1, 2023. The policy requires single-use items like utensils and straws to be made from non-plastic materials to reduce the presence of plastic in our community and keep plastic out of our environment. Reusable food ware for dining onsite is required to further prevent the use of single-use plastic. It also prohibits polystyrene (also known as Styrofoam) products, which frequently make their way into marine habitats and cause harm to wildlife. Balloon releases are also regulated for similar reasons – latex balloons and plastic ribbons can entangle wildlife, while Mylar balloons are completely banned in Goleta to prevent environmental harm and damage to power lines.

There are numerous simple yet effective ways to reduce plastic usage in our daily lives. For instance, consider carrying a reusable water bottle and coffee cup, opting for reusable shopping bags, and avoiding products with excessive plastic packaging. If you need more ideas, check out Plastic Free July’s website for a comprehensive list of actions you can take. Plastic Free July – Be Part of the Plastic Pollution Solution

By participating in Plastic Free July, you’re not just making a difference for one month— you’re contributing to a lasting change that benefits our environment and future generations. Together, we can reduce our reliance on single-use plastics and move towards a more sustainable and resilient Goleta.

JoAnne Plummer Promoted to Neighborhood Services Director

After more than 35 years of public service in local government, Goleta’s first Parks and Recreation Manager, JoAnne Plummer, has taken on a new leadership role at the City. She began her next career chapter as the City’s Neighborhood Services Director on June 17th. She was selected following a competitive hiring process and three decades spent serving in various positions of local government, including the last eight years working at the City of Goleta.

Goleta’s Assistant City Manager and former Neighborhood Services Director Jaime Valdez said she is well prepared and deserving of this new opportunity. He added, “Ms. Plummer brings a unique blend of polished skills and high energy to the role as well as a “Happy to Help” attitude. In addition to her extensive knowledge in Parks and Recreation operations, she also has an expertise and focus on forward-facing programing and projects making her a perfect fit to lead the varying functional areas in the Neighborhood Services Department.”

Ms. Plummer said, “I am so honored and excited to step into this new position to lead a team of talented and dedicated professionals. Together, we will continue to support and enhance our community through the vital services the Neighborhood Services Department provides.”

Ms. Plummer started her career in public service at the City of Santa Maria where she spent 11 years in various positions. She began as a part time swimming pool clerk, advancing to lifeguard and swim instructor. She was promoted to Assistant Pool Manager before working her way up to Cultural Arts Program Coordinator, Special Events Program Coordinator, and then Aquatic Facility Specialist. Next, she took on the roles of Recreation Supervisor and Recreation Manager at the City of Lompoc where she spent 19 years. Her move to become the first Parks and Recreation Manager for the City of Goleta occurred in November 2016.

In her eight years as Goleta’s Parks and Recreation Manager, Ms. Plummer has accomplished several important projects for our community:

  • Armitos Park renovation with the City’s first community garden
  • Construction of Jonny D. Wallis Neighborhood Park
  • Direct management of the Goleta Community Center
  • A new Multi-Purpose Field at the Goleta Community Center
  • New playgrounds at Andamar, Berkeley and Winchester II Parks
  • Installation of a fitness station at Winchester I Park
  • Parks Master Plan
  • Stow Grove Park Master Plan
  • And more coming soon!

As the Neighborhood Services Director, Ms. Plummer oversees the following divisions: City and Community Development Block Grants, Emergency Services, Homelessness Services, Library, and Parks and Recreation which includes overseeing the Goleta Community Center.

Join the City in congratulating Ms. Plummer on becoming Goleta’s next Neighborhood Services Director.

Two Youth Commissioners and a Design Professional Wanted

Apply by August 9

The City of Goleta has new opportunities for community members to get involved, including two specifically for teens ages 15 – 18. The Parks and Recreation Commission and Public Engagement Commission are both looking to fill a youth position. This is a great opportunity to learn more about how local government works, have your voice heard, and give back to your community. The City is also looking for applicants for an opening on the Design Review Board. Interested community members can apply here by August 9.

The Parks and Recreation Commission is a seven-member body with an opening for a Youth Commissioner (at least 15 years old and not more than 18 years old at the time of appointment). The Commission advises the City Council on all issues related to public parks, open spaces, beaches, and indoor and outdoor recreational facilities and opportunities in Goleta. Eligible applicants must live in the City of Goleta. The Youth Commissioner is for a two-year term.

The Commission holds six regular meetings per year and may hold additional meetings as needed; members are compensated $75 per meeting. A youth member may choose to waive compensation in order to receive school or other educational or community service credit.

The Public Engagement Commission is also looking for a Youth Commissioner. This seven-member body advises the City Council and staff on matters related to public engagement in City government and governance. The Commission has provided recommendations to the City Council on moving to evening-only meetings, directly electing the Mayor, and district elections.

The Youth Commissioner vacancy will fill an unexpired portion of a term that ends September 2025. Eligible applicants must live in the City of Goleta. The Commission holds four regular meetings per year and may hold additional meetings as needed. Compensation is $75 per meeting. The Youth Commissioner can choose to waive compensation to instead receive school or other educational or community service credit.

The Design Review Board (DRB) encourages development that uses the best professional design practices to enhance the visual aesthetics of the community and prevent poor quality of design. The DRB advises the City Council, Planning Commission, and staff. There is one vacancy for a Design Professional position (City-Resident) to fill an unexpired portion of a term ending February 1, 2026.

The DRB meets the second and fourth Tuesdays of each month at 3:00 p.m., and members are compensated $75 per meeting.

Applications for all open Board and Commission vacancies may be submitted online at https://www.cityofgoleta.org/boardscommissions. Applications are due by August 9, 2024, at 5:00 p.m. For additional information, please email cityclerkgroup@cityofgoleta.org.

Senior Scam Prevention Seminar July 9

Have you or someone you know fallen victim to a scam? Join Senator Monique Limón for a Senior Scam Prevention Seminar at the Goleta Community Center (5679 Hollister Avenue) on Tuesday, July 9 from 10:00 a.m. – 11:45 a.m. Gain valuable information on how to detect scams and protect yourself from fraud as you learn from a panel of experts on the latest scam tactics.

The seminar is presented by the California Department of Insurance, Department of Financial Protection & Innovation, Department of Consumer Affairs and the Department of Justice.

Please RVSP online for this event or call Senator Monique Limón’s Office at (805) 965 -0862.

For questions, please email Senator.Limon@senate.ca.gov or call the Santa Barbara District Office at (805) 965 -0862.

Storm Damage Repair Work

Projects to Fix Damage from February 2024 Storm

Work has begun to repair City infrastructure damaged in the February 2024 storm. The atmospheric river storm that occurred on February 4, 2024, caused significant damage in Goleta, including flooding on public streets, open spaces, and other property in the City; damage to public rights-of-way, including storm drain infrastructure; downed trees blocking sidewalks and streets; road closures; and disruption of public services.

Five public infrastructure repair projects will take place between the end of June and August.

The Ellwood Mesa Emergency Access Road project (pictured) started the week of June 24th and will take approximately one month to complete. The project is located along the trail to Ellwood Mesa off Santa Barbara Shores Drive and will involve replacing the culvert and access road across Devereux Creek. Ellwood Mesa Open Space will remain open with detour signs posted to avoid the construction area. If you have any questions or comments, please contact Project Manager Michael Winnewisser at (805) 690-5120 or mwinnewisser@cityofgoleta.org.

The Newport Drive Culvert Repair project is anticipated to start in early July and take approximately one month to complete. Located between the 7500 and 7600 blocks of Newport Drive at a small creek, the project will involve rep-airing the southern end of a box culvert with new piles, foundation and wingwalls and replacing the adjacent sidewalk that has been undermined by storm flows. The work will mostly occur within the creek with minor traffic and pedestrian impacts expected on Newport Drive. Questions or comments can be directed to Project Manager Michael Winnewisser at (805) 690-5120 or mwinnewisser@cityofgoleta.org.   

The Evergreen Park Drainage Repair project is expected to start in early July and will take approximately one month to complete. The project is located along Padova Drive near the southern entrance of Evergreen Park. The project will involve replacing a catch basin, storm drain pipe, and installing a new junction and outlet structure. The eroded bank will also be repaired. The work will occur on the south end of Evergreen Park. The park will remain open with detour signs posted to avoid the construction area. If you have any questions or comments, please contact Kent Yankee, Contract Project Manager, at kyankee@cityofgoleta.org.  

 

The San Pedro Creek Storm Drain Repair project is planned to start in late July and take approximately one month to complete. The project, located along Westmorland Place near San Pedro Creek, will involve installing a new concrete collar, headwall, and footing over a 48” storm drainpipe. The work will mostly occur on the San Pedro creek bank with minor traffic and pedestrian impacts expected on Westmorland Place. For questions or comments, contact Contract Project Manager Kent Yankee at kyankee@cityofgoleta.org.

The Covington Way and Camino Venturoso Drain Debris Removal project is expected to start in August and take approximately one week to complete. The project is located at the intersection of Covington Way and Camino Venturoso and will involve dewatering and removing debris from an adjacent storm drain outlet structure, flushing out upstream storm drain pipe, and CCTV pipe inspections. Traffic control will be in place to guide vehicles and pedestrians around the work area. For questions or comments, contact Project Manager Daniel Virgen Jr. at (805) 961-7564 or dvirgen@cityofgoleta.org.  


All projects have approved permits and biologists will be performing pre-work surveys for sensitive wildlife species to avoid any impacts. The City thanks you in advance for your patience.

Pavement Rehabilitation Scheduled Soon

List of Road Segments Scheduled for Construction Beginning Mid-July

The City of Goleta will begin an estimated $7 million dollars of pavement rehabilitation construction in mid-July. The road segments included were approved for the 2023 Pavement Rehabilitation Project. The Project is part of the City’s ongoing effort to maintain and improve the City’s road network by restoring and resurfacing the existing pavement to prevent further damage and extend its lifespan. The work will also include installing new striping and markings to improve visibility for drivers and accessibility compliant curb ramp upgrades.

While they are not in any particular order and an exact schedule has not yet been determined, the following road segments are scheduled for rehabilitation:

  • Cathedral Oaks Road (Winchester Canyon Road to Evergreen Drive)
  • Phelps Road (Pacific Oaks Road to Storke Road)
  • Colusa Drive (Del Norte Drive to Calle Real)
  • Caroldale Place (Caroldale Lane to cul-de-sac)
  • Caroldale Lane (Camino Laguna Vista to La Patera Lane)
  • Hollister Avenue (Cathedral Oaks Road to Gate at West End)
  • Storke Road (Hollister Avenue to US 101 On-Ramp)
  • North Fairview Avenue (US 101 On Ramp to Calle Real)

The construction phase will require temporary lane closures and traffic detours. Once a schedule of construction is announced, you are advised to plan your routes accordingly and follow all traffic signage and instructions from construction crew workers.

The City constructs an Annual Pavement Rehabilitation Project as part of its Pavement Management Program (PMP). The PMP uses a critical point management approach to select and prioritize which streets will be considered for treatment. The critical point approach incorporates pavements from all parts of the deterioration curve, not just the best or worst. This approach optimizes every budget dollar by seeking to apply the right treatment to the right pavement at the right time. Pavement treatments ranges from pothole repair and crack sealing to slurry seals, overlays, and reconstructions.  

To stay updated on the project’s progress, please visit our pavement webpage at www.CityofGoleta.org/Pavement.  

If you have any questions on the Pavement Rehabilitation Projects, please contact us at pavement@CityofGoleta.org or 805-562-5504.

Pictured: Paving on N. Los Carneros Road (February 2023)

Meet Me in Old Town July 18

Free Summer Events Celebrating Goleta’s Community Spirit

The “Meet Me in Old Town Goleta” free summer event series returns Thursday, July 18 from 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. Grab your favorite fare from an Old Town eatery and head to Magnolia Avenue between Hollister Avenue and Gaviota Street for live music, performances, games, and refreshments, including beer and wine. Community organizations and local vendors will be on-site and Goleta shirts and sweatshirts along with commemorative merchandise will be available for purchase.

Here are the details for July 18:

Entertainment: Mezcal Martini, Fiesta Spirit and Junior Spirit will be dancing

Activities: Live music, local business specials, food trucks, refreshments, games, merchandise, community vendors.

Food Trucks: Dave’s Dogs and McConnell’s Ice Cream

Vendor Booths: City of Goleta, Megan’s Organic Market, CrossFit Santa Barbara, Wright & Feusier Orthodontics and Children’s Resources and Referral of Santa Barbara County

There are only three Meet Me in Old Town events total and the first one in May was a blast! Check out photos here. The last one is on August 18th.

Designed to enhance community engagement, boost local business visibility, and showcase the unique charm of Old Town Goleta, these events celebrate the lively atmosphere of an evening block party, featuring games, entertainment, and a variety of food and beverage options. Local businesses will host specials and participate in ways that highlight their unique offerings, from tastings to promotions. This initiative not only promotes visiting local businesses but also encourages them to engage directly with the community and their neighbors in the heart of Old Town.

Residents are invited to join their neighbors in interactive and family-friendly activities. Visitors from neighboring areas can explore the distinctive attractions that Old Town Goleta has to offer and enjoy a lineup of performers such as Mezcal Martini and performances by the Fiesta Spirit and Junior Spirit in July and Tequila Mockingbird in August.

The event is put on by the Santa Barbara South Coast Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the City of Goleta. For more information go to SBSCChamber.com.

Public parking for the event is available in the Yardi parking lot at 430 S. Fairview Avenue or the public parking lot next to Community West Bank at 5827 Hollister Avenue.

We hope to see you there!

Pictured: City of Goleta staff at the May 16 Meet Me in Old Town Event