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Lead Goleta 2026 graduates 32 participants after six-week civic leadership program
Summary
Lead Goleta’s six-week civic leadership program concluded with a graduation for 32 participants who attended classes on city government, budgeting, public safety, parks, and a mock council exercise; the cohort completed homework, community volunteer work and a public graduation ceremony.
Lead Goleta 2026 wrapped its six-week cohort on Jan. 22, 2026, with a graduation ceremony that capped a program designed to give residents a hands-on introduction to city government.
Program staff highlighted that “this year, 32 classmates came together, retirees, high school and college students, entrepreneurs, and longtime community members,” describing a cohort formed around “a genuine love for Goleta.” The sessions included presentations from city officials, behind-the-scenes tours, a mock city council meeting and practical workshops on budgeting and emergency preparedness.
The program offered an inside look at local government operations. A staff member said Class 1 featured presentations from each city council member, the city manager and the assistant city manager, while Class 2 met the city clerk’s office and finance team to discuss budgeting, economic development and support for local businesses. “I didn’t expect them to open up their books and talk to us about the budget,” a participant said, praising the city’s transparency.
Participants described hands-on learning as a standout. One attendee said, “Having that mock city council meeting was really fun because I got to see... how city ordinances get passed and how... town halls are held,” noting the role-play gave practical insight into elected officials’ responsibilities. Another participant introduced themself as “a Goleta local and a UCSB graduate,” reflecting the program’s mix of ages and backgrounds.
Class 3 included sessions on parks, open space and homelessness services and a behind-the-scenes tour of GBL Express, the city’s temporary library location. Public works visited Class 5 to discuss current and future projects, and program staff noted visits from the city’s new public-safety leadership, naming the new fire chief, Derek Huff, and the new chief of police services for Goleta, Lieutenant Jared Mortz. The same class featured a canine demonstration (Kaz) that participants said illustrated the dog’s ability to help diffuse potentially violent situations.
Emergency preparedness was another focused topic: staff said emergency services led an in-depth session on what to include in a “go bag,” which participants described as practical and helpful. New program elements introduced in 2026 included weekly homework assignments requiring attendees to observe city council meetings, volunteer for Beautify Goleta and participate in a Shop Local campaign to encourage civic involvement beyond the classroom.
A lighthearted engagement activity — a “Where’s Mayor Paula Perotti?” photo challenge — had participants taking cutouts of the mayor to local outdoor spaces and businesses as a way to explore the city and promote local places.
Program organizers closed the final session with trivia, prizes, cupcakes and apple cider at a graduation ceremony. Staff thanked the participants for their energy and encouraged them to continue to learn, empower, advocate and discuss in Goleta.
No formal council actions or votes were recorded as part of this program session; it was a civic-education series intended to increase resident familiarity with municipal operations and to promote ongoing community participation.
