Santa Barbara County Officials Present Update on Homelessness Strategies and Trends

In the heart of Goleta, city officials gathered under the warm glow of the council chamber lights to address a pressing issue that affects many residents: homelessness. The July 15, 2025, City Council meeting featured a detailed presentation from Santa Barbara County's housing and community development division, highlighting recent trends and strategies in combating homelessness.

Joe Dzvonick, the assistant director, and Jet Blackmertz, the chief manager of the county's homeless assistance program, shared insights from the annual point-in-time count—a snapshot of homelessness conducted every January. This year, the count revealed a 15% increase in visible homelessness, with 2,436 individuals identified on a single night. However, the data also indicated a significant shift: while the number of people living unsheltered decreased, those residing in vehicles surged by 42%. This trend underscores a growing concern about vehicular homelessness, which often serves as a first step into deeper housing instability.

The council learned that nearly 1,400 individuals transitioned out of homelessness into permanent housing over the past year, a testament to the effectiveness of ongoing efforts. Yet, the overall number of people requiring shelter and housing services rose to 4,457, marking a complex landscape where successes coexist with challenges. Dzvonick emphasized the need for a robust prevention strategy, particularly as many individuals experiencing homelessness for the first time are turning to their vehicles for shelter.

Council members engaged in a thoughtful dialogue about the implications of these trends. They expressed concerns about the visibility of homelessness in neighborhoods, particularly in Old Town Goleta, where residents reported an increase in individuals living in vehicles. The council acknowledged the importance of outreach and the need for tailored solutions to address the unique challenges faced by different demographics, including families and seniors.

As the meeting concluded, the council reaffirmed its commitment to collaboration with county partners and community organizations. The discussions highlighted a collective understanding that addressing homelessness requires not only immediate responses but also long-term strategies to prevent individuals from falling into homelessness in the first place. With ongoing efforts and community engagement, Goleta aims to navigate the complexities of homelessness, striving for a future where everyone has a place to call home.