Santa Barbara County supervisors honor six longtime employees at special April 7 meeting

The Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors on April 7 unanimously adopted a package of resolutions recognizing six longtime county employees who are retiring, celebrating their years of public service and contributions to county operations.

At the start of the special meeting, President Nelson said the board was convening early “to recognize” staff tied to the county’s 150 years of service and to allow retiring employees and their programs time to be honored. The clerk took roll call and reported supervisors Hartman, Lavanino, Lee and President Nelson present; one supervisor was absent. A motion to adopt the resolutions (items A1–A6) passed with all in favor.

The board read and adopted individual resolutions honoring each employee. Resolution A1 recognized Kim Chu for 21 years in the county’s inspections and technology work, citing her role building a centralized platform for property information and contributing to departmental modernization. Colleagues praised her technical leadership and personal demeanor; Kim responded, “Ha sido un gran honor trabajar con el condado,” and thanked staff and residents.

Resolution A2 honored Mark (listed in the meeting record as “Mark Seen” and later as “Mark Sean”) for nearly two decades in the public defender’s office (the resolution text references 19 years). Colleague Tracy Muga and other speakers credited him with defending constitutional rights, advocating for medically vulnerable people during the COVID‑19 pandemic and mentoring newer attorneys. Mark said the work had been “un placer” and reflected on its emotional rewards.

Resolution A3 recognized Jodi Lipner for 29 years of service in public works and planning, noting leadership on long‑range planning, the Tajiguas projects and habitat restoration that—according to the resolution—benefit the county’s coastline for decades. Speakers credited her stewardship of restoration projects and conservation standards; Lipner thanked colleagues and family for support.

Resolution A4 honored Brian (listed in the record variably as “Brian Lawrence Carol” and similar variants) for roughly 29 years as a public defender, noting senior roles, trial experience and consistent client advocacy. Colleagues described him as empathetic and steadfast, and Brian addressed the board to express appreciation for the opportunity to serve.

Supervisor Nelson then presented resolution A6 honoring Paulina McLo for 37 years with the sheriff’s office; Sheriff Bill Brown and Paulina both spoke, with Brown calling her a trusted and exemplary employee and Paulina thanking family, supervisors and colleagues for the years of service.

The board recessed for three minutes to allow for scheduling and traffic issues and planned to continue the agenda after the break.

Actions at the meeting were limited to the adoption of the recognitions; the board took no policy actions, votes on ordinances, or legislative decisions during this short special session.