2019
6,161
Two City Council seats (Districts 1, 2). Two more seats were uncontested and candidates were appointed (Districts 3, 6) rather than put on the ballot, to save money on the election cost
Studies from the Public Policy Institute of California and other organizations have demonstrated that even-year elections and propositions can improve turnout, and Santa Barbara’s election history shows that to be true.
The city will be moving to even-year elections in 2024, like every other city in the tri-county area, which is expected to have a larger impact on voter turnout than district elections did.
Elections for the six City Council seats are split, so three people are elected every two years. The mayor’s race is aligned with the Districts 4, 5 and 6 elections, which means every city voter can cast a ballot those years.
Santa Barbara City Council Puts Temporary Stop to Changes at Flamingo Mobile Home Park
Residents speak out to protect the seniors-only policy as the park s owners push to open up the units to people of all ages and to allow rentals
Christel Barros says she has lived at the Flamingo Mobile Home Park at 1210 Cacique St. in Santa Barbara on and off since 1965. She spoke before the City Council on Tuesday to oppose proposed changes to the park. (Joshua Molina / Noozhawk photo) By Joshua Molina, Noozhawk Staff Writer | @JECMolina
December 15, 2020
Christel Barros voice quivered as she took the microphone. It is really hard for me to talk right now. I am shaking, Barros said. The intimidating tone of these powerful people, it s just overwhelming me.