Parking enforcement returns to full staffing after COVID disruptions in downtown

The Downtown Parking Committee of Santa Barbara convened on March 19, 2025, to discuss various issues related to parking enforcement and data collection in the city. The meeting began with a review of the impact of COVID-19 on parking enforcement, with Committee Member Labrie noting that enforcement largely ceased during the pandemic. It was reported that parking enforcement resumed in the summer of 2020 but was initially limited due to staffing shortages. Currently, the department has returned to full staffing levels with 12 officers.

The committee also discussed the closure of major retail stores, including Macy's and Nordstrom, and how these closures have affected parking data. Members expressed the need for accurate data from local businesses, such as Paseo Nuevo and the California Hotel, to better manage parking in the downtown area. It was noted that while the committee can request this information, it is ultimately voluntary for these businesses to provide it.

The discussion included projections for parking ticket revenues, with estimates suggesting that the city could see a significant increase in transactions compared to previous years. The anticipated figures indicate that this would be the first time since 2019 that the number of transactions would exceed 3 million, marking a positive trend in parking activity.

The meeting concluded with a recognition of the efforts made by staff to provide data to local organizations interested in parking management. There were no public comments, and the committee expressed appreciation for the ongoing communication with constituents regarding parking issues. Overall, the meeting highlighted the gradual recovery of parking enforcement and the importance of data in managing downtown parking effectively.