Civic Issues

Topics getting the most attention in Santa Barbara public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.

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2 issues in taxes budget with high priority

HighTaxes Budget

Real property transfer tax measure dropped

The City won't ask voters this November to raise the transfer tax on $3M+ property sales. Weak polling, a statewide legal challenge, and no campaign champion killed it — meaning the City still lacks a dedicated way to rebuild reserves.

3 mentionsLast discussed Apr 9, 2026

HighTaxes Budget

Charter amendment to remove 50-year lease cap

The city charter limits leases of city-owned property to 50 years, which staff say blocks viable long-term ground leases for housing on city parking lots and sites like the former police building. A ballot measure could fix it — June costs about $195,000, November about $50,000. Council will decide next week.

3 mentionsLast discussed Jan 29, 2026