Nearly 200 residents at Battistone urge city help after proposed sale, cite risk of displacement

Residents and advocates for nearly 200 low‑income seniors living at the Battistone housing complex told the Santa Barbara City Council on July 29 they fear displacement if the property is sold to a for‑profit buyer and urged the city and local nonprofits to intervene.

Speakers described Battistone as predominantly occupied by low‑income seniors, many living on Social Security, and said vacancy rates across the city are effectively zero. Corinne Anderson, who identified herself as a resident and former teacher, said the prospect of a sale was announced about six months ago and has left tenants unsure where they would move: “We first heard about the sale of Battistone January, 6 months ago. Where will we go?” Anderson asked.

Why it matters: speakers said the buildings house older adults who rely on local social and medical services and who would face loneliness, isolation and loss of community if displaced. The residents asked the council to help secure nonprofit or public buyers, or otherwise prevent a sale that could result in steep rent increases.

What residents told the council

- An 89‑year‑old resident said she moved downtown to remain independent and expressed fear of losing her home and community supports if forced to relocate.

- Corinne Anderson said nearly 200 low‑income seniors live at the property and that many would be unable to find comparable housing because available units are priced beyond their means and wait lists are closed.

- Martine White, who described her background in county film commission work and as a UCSB employee, said tenants are seeking an “angel investor” or a nonprofit to acquire and manage the property as mutual housing; she asked the council and philanthropic groups to help coordinate that effort. “Who will find temporary housing for them? Who will pay for it? Who helps them to move?” White asked.

Speakers proposed options including sale to a nonprofit, purchase by a public agency (city or county), or creation of a mutual housing association to protect current residents. Several speakers said they would prefer nonprofit or public ownership and expressed concern that a for‑profit buyer could increase rents and displace tenants.

Council response and next steps

No formal council action on the Battistone matter was recorded during the July 29 meeting. Speakers provided a written statement and contact information and asked the council to connect them with nonprofits and philanthropic organizations. The council scheduled a special meeting for July 31 to continue items requiring additional review; staff or council members did not announce a specific follow‑up plan for the Battistone speakers during the July 29 meeting.

The residents asked the public and local foundations to help coordinate outreach to potential nonprofit managers and funders to preserve affordable senior units.