Digging a Deep Financial Hole
By Bonnie Donovan
State Street Fiasco: From “Pedestrian Promenade” to “Grand Paseo”
Continuing to this week's City Council meeting on the financial burden on our city budget…
…The designation for Closed State Street has undergone a notable evolution, with its third iteration now being referred to as the “Grand Paseo.” Initially, this space was identified as the "Pedestrian Promenade,” a name that emphasized its intended use as a thoroughfare for foot traffic. Subsequently, the title was simplified to "The Promenade," reflecting a more general appeal that would include bicycles. The latest nomenclature, “Grand Paseo,” suggests a more expansive and grandiose vision for the area, potentially indicating enhancements in design and functionality that aim to elevate the experience of visitors and residents alike.
Facing a staggering deficit of $7.1 million that continues to grow, there are plans to transform the street into a flat, flexible, and fun space, a project that would require an investment of several million dollars. The risk here is significant; if the initiative fails to deliver the promised benefits, it could lead to even greater expenses to revert the street to its original state.
This scenario is reminiscent of previous projects, such as the installation and subsequent removal of the green bike path paint, which only added to the city’s financial burden. Given these circumstances, one might argue that a more fitting name for this endeavor would be "Grandiose Pasos," reflecting the ambitious yet precarious nature of the undertaking.
Digging a Deep Financial Hole
The financial implications of this project are alarming, as it threatens to push the already projected $11 million deficit even higher in the coming years. Investing in such a costly transformation without a clear, guaranteed outcome raises serious questions about fiscal responsibility and the prioritization of community needs. Instead of pursuing a potentially flawed vision that could lead to further financial strain, it would be wiser to consider more sustainable and cost-effective solutions that genuinely enhance the community without risking additional debt.
The focus should be on practical improvements that serve the public interest rather than grandiose plans that may ultimately prove to be a financial misstep.
During this council meeting, a notable divide emerged among the members. While some expressed enthusiasm (pee your pants) with palpable excitement, others voiced their concerns regarding the financial implications of the proposed Flat, Flexible, and Fun, initiative. Mayor Randy Rowse highlighted that the project would require a significant investment, amounting to several million dollars, which raised questions about the feasibility of such an endeavor given the current budget constraints.
The situation becomes even more perplexing when considering council member Kristen Sneddon’s push to transform State Street into a new park, especially considering the recent decision to place a ½-cent sales tax on the ballot aimed at maintaining existing parks. The push for new projects seems misaligned with the pressing need to ensure that the parks we already have remain open and safe, indicating a potential disconnect between the council's priorities and the community's needs.
Businesses Continue to Leave State Street
In a related development during the same meeting, Mayor Rowse revealed that CVS on the promenade would not be renewing its lease, a decision that raises further questions about the viability of local businesses in the current city forced economic climate. The rationale behind this decision is understandable, given the ongoing discussions about generating new revenue streams. However, the recent implementation of the new Community Benefit Improvement District (CBID) on State Street, which is expected to increase rents, coupled with the introduction of the new EIFD or “Enhanced Infrastructure Financing District, suggests a troubling trend. It appears that the city is attempting to extract more from its existing resources, yet the reality is that the potential for growth may be limited, leaving stakeholders to ponder the sustainability of such strategies.
The recent City Council meeting on State Street revealed some startling insights. Only Mayor Rowse and Council Member Alejandra Gutierrez expressed genuine concern over the escalating $7.1 million deficit facing the city. Oscar Gutierrez may have hinted at his awareness of the issue when he remarked that the private citizen who spent $13,000 on a personal survey could have simply donated that amount to the city instead.
Our retail landscape is undergoing significant changes, and it seems that our traditional shopping is struggling to keep pace, particularly as our sales tax revenue continues to decline. In my travels to cities like Huntington Beach and San Diego, I’ve noticed a vibrant retail scene filled with bustling shopping malls and a plethora of stores. What stands out to me is the abundance of free parking available in these areas: a stark contrast to the parking challenges often faced here.
Where Did Our Sales Tax Money Go?
During my visit to Alabama and Georgia last year, I encountered a similar scenario with a wealth of retail options and ample free parking. This observation leads me to reflect on the retail situation in Santa Barbara. Despite the perception that our city lacks shopping opportunities, we still have a thriving retail presence. On my block, I frequently see delivery vehicles from FedEx, UPS, USPS, and Amazon making their rounds, even on Sundays, indicating that there is a steady demand for goods and services.
Recently, I made a quick trip to Vons on the Mesa, which took me about 15 minutes. On my way home, I passed five Amazon delivery trucks, further highlighting the ongoing activity in retail, albeit in a different form. It’s worth noting that when the government mandated that all online retailers collect sales tax based on the delivery address, there was an expectation of increased revenue for localities. However, it raises the question of where that tax revenue is going and how it is being utilized to support our local economy.
Where are our sales taxes? Don’t you remember the State of California demanding that we pay sales tax for all online purchases?!
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Great op-ed, Bonnie! I am thoroughly disgusted by what they've done to our historic downtown, not to mention the elimination of critical infrastructure. I'm particularly disgusted by the process. Have you considered publishing your op-eds regarding leading SB issues in the Noozhawk (also) for a wider audience?
Residents of SB Districts 1 and 3: Vote Alejandra Gutierrez and Tony Becerro for more balance on the City Council.
I have a few simple questions I would like our Mayor and City Council to answer: If State Street was viable before Covid and was closed “temporarily” because of Covid, why not return to the pre-Covid status quo? If you caused State Street to become the mess it has become by “temporarily” closing it, why not “unclose” it?