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Santa Barbara outlines FY2026–27 budget plan, directs Measure I revenue to public safety and housing
Summary
City finance staff presented the city administrator’s recommended two‑year budget overview, saying Measure I sales tax proceeds will provide the first full year of funding for public safety and new housing transfers while the general fund faces widening gaps in later years.
Finance Director Keith DeMartini and Budget Manager Natalia Glusick presented the City of Santa Barbara’s recommended budget for fiscal years 2026 and 2027 to the Police and Fire Commission, focusing on the general fund and the implementation of Measure I.
DeMartini said Measure I, “a half‑cent sales tax that Santa Barbara residents approved in November,” took effect April 1 and that staff projects Measure I receipts of about $15.1 million in FY 2026 and $15.5 million in FY 2027. The finance presentation recommended using those revenues to sustain existing essential services, with specific allocations to public safety, parks and recreation, library services and homelessness contracts.
Glusick outlined the budget development phases and noted the city’s online budget book is available for public review. Staff described the general fund as approximately 30% of total city funds and said that while…
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