Lompoc council sets aside prior-year chamber funding, adopts budget amid widespread public protests

The Lompoc City Council on June 17 adopted a biannual city budget and capital improvement program while carving out an interim funding line for the Lompoc Chamber of Commerce and ordering a negotiated contract with performance and audit requirements.

The council approved the fiscal 2025–27 biannual budget and related ordinance by roll-call vote, 5-0. Staff told the council the draft budget contains a $35,000 contract amount for the chamber plus about $25,000 in in‑kind support the city had previously provided; council members and many public speakers pressed for clearer accountability and a longer transition if the council reduced or rescinded city support.

Why it matters: The chamber has served as the city’s longtime business advocate, run youth leadership programs and organized downtown events. Residents, business owners and program alumni packed the meeting to urge the council to preserve funding and to demand transparent process and dialogue after an earlier council action to reduce the chamber contract prompted public concern.

Council and staff action - The council…