Board gives first reading to Isla Vista residential permit and commercial meter ordinances; public debate on access and enforcement

The Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors on July 6 approved first reading of ordinances to enable a residential parking‑permit program and commercial parking meters in Isla Vista, moving the proposals toward a July 20 hearing for final adoption and accompanying coastal development review.

Public Works staff explained that state vehicle code requires a local ordinance to authorize permit programs and parking meters; staff said after ordinance adoption the board will return with a resolution authorizing the Isla Vista program and will not buy equipment until a coastal development permit is in hand. Project manager John McGinnis said ordinances amend County Code chapter 23 to add Chapter 23D (meters) and modify 23B (permits).

Community members proposed program refinements. Mark Natchesson suggested a pilot “beautification” program allowing a limited number of residents to reduce or waive permit fees in exchange for supervised community cleanup work; staff and supervisors discussed limiting participants and preserving the program’s revenue stream. Ken Polley of the Surfrider Foundation warned that locals‑only parking models can set precedents that restrict public beach access and said the Coastal Act concerns should be examined downstream with the Coastal Commission.

Supervisor Marshall and others urged attention to enforcement (permit counterfeiting, double allocations to landlords) and to caps on landlord‑provided spaces so that permits are not monetized. Staff said they will consult county counsel and refine enforcement language between now and the July 20 adoption hearing. The board approved the first reading and set a July 20 hearing for final adoption, with direction to consult with counsel on implementation details and enforcement.