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LAFCO outlines tax‑exchange process; Richards Ranch annexation remains in arbitration
Summary
Staff explained the multi‑step property tax exchange process used for annexations and said LAFCO remains a monitor until parties reach agreement or a final determination; the Richards Ranch application is currently in arbitration after mediation failed, and the developer urged the commission to intervene.
Santa Barbara Local Agency Formation Commission staff on Jan. 8 gave commissioners a detailed briefing on the property tax‑exchange process that must be completed before many annexations can move to a LAFCO hearing. The presentation included statutory timelines, the role of county offices, and dispute resolution steps.
Mike Prater, LAFCO’s executive officer, described the usual sequence: after a city files an annexation application LAFCO issues a report back that triggers the auditor/assessor to prepare a notice of tax estimates (a 45‑day step). That starts a negotiation period between the…
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