Wealthy and Retired?
by Bonnie Donovan
“The population that goes to the golf course can afford the fee… Why are we not increasing the fees?” – Santa Barbara Council Member Alejandra Gutierrez
All Golfers are Wealthy and Retired, Aren't They?
No.
They’re not.
The previous City Council made a decision years ago to transfer the management of our municipal golf course from city employees to a contractor. At the recent City Council meeting on May 24, it was evident that this decision has been successful in terms of financial savings.
The contractor is generating profits and has sufficient reserves to fund maintenance and improvements. However, during the meeting, council member Alejandra Gutierrez questioned why the fees for the golf course are not being increased further, stating that “the population that goes to the golf course can afford the fee… Why are we not increasing the fees?” The staff presented information regarding the fee increases, which can be viewed in the provided link.
During the golf course presentation by the Finance staff, starting at 1:32:25, the Business Manager from Parks and Recreation provides a comprehensive overview. However, some council members ask repetitive questions that had already been addressed. These questions begin at 1:36:40.
It is crucial for council members to do their homework before meetings; Alejandra demonstrated a lack of understanding about the purpose of a municipal golf course. Contrary to a Country Club, it serves a diverse range of individuals, including children from four years old to college students, with seniors receiving a discount.
Despite the golf course already covering its operational and maintenance costs, Alejandra suggests further price increases. Perhaps she assumes that all users are affluent professionals, which, of course, is far from the truth.
What’s not working are the streets and sidewalks in Santa Barbara! Just a few examples to follow 😣
Santa Barbara Sidewalks Going to Seed
When will they get to this? They have gone to seed so more will be coming.
Aren’t all city sidewalks supposed to be accessible, especially for the handicapped?
ADA anyone?
The situation arises immediately following the street sweeper's weekly visit, however, the edges remain untouched. It appears that our investment in outsourcing to a company is not yielding the expected results due to a lack of oversight on their performance.
Right after the street sweeper completed his weekly round, it became evident that he never reached the edges. This situation highlights the fact that we are not receiving the full value for our money by outsourcing to this company without properly monitoring their work. Years ago, we had a different company that monitored the cul de sac and made sure the work was done
This belongs to the city, along with another one, left here since February 2023, which makes it one year and four months ago. Unfortunately, the other one was taken away by a homeless person three months ago. But that's okay, we can simply purchase replacements.
To notify the city of concerns, like potholes and graffiti, please use the following link.
We did last year!
In the event of an emergency, are you prepared to utilize one of the downtown escape routes?
I would like to bring to your attention a potential emergency escape route in the downtown area. Are you prepared for such a situation? The bike lane appears to be unobstructed.
The New Narrowed Underpass on State Street
It seems that some cars were making U-turns to find an alternate route. This could indicate potential congestion or obstacles in the area that may affect traffic flow.
As I gaze down State Street, I notice that there is a train approaching. It is always important to be aware of your surroundings, especially when waiting for public transportation.
This was Sunday.
Looking for a Gun lock?
You are invited to join the city meeting on firearm safety and workshop, where you can also receive a gun lock for free. The event will take place on June 1, from 11 am to 1 pm at 1136 E. Montecito Street. For more information and registration, please click this link.
Clean out your garage
Don't miss out on the opportunity to participate in the free Household Hazardous Waste Collection happening on June 8. Head over to the Santa Barbara City College parking lot 2-C (136 Loma Alta) and bring all your old paints and other hazardous materials. Join in by clicking this link for more information.
Saving the Anapamu Stone Pines
The Historic Landmarks Commission (HLC) recently requested city staff to prioritize the historic Italian stone pines on its agenda.
The importance of these trees was once again brought to the attention of the HLC during its recent meeting. Public speakers, who had previously voiced their concerns, once again expressed support for the preservation of these historic Italian stone pines.
It is crucial to acknowledge the significance of these trees in Santa Barbara's history and landscape. For over a century, they have stood as a symbol of the city's heritage. In recognition of their cultural value, the City Council officially designated them the Doremus Pine Trees in 1997. These trees were named after Dr. A. Boyd Doremus, a Parks Commissioner who played a pivotal role in planting the first trees back in 1908.
Public speakers have consistently voiced their concerns about the trees during previous meetings, and they did so again at the meeting last week.
The HLC requested city staff to prioritize the historic Italian stone pines along East Anapamu Street on its agenda due to public speakers' concerns, over a month ago.
However, when questioned by the HLC, City staffers explained that they did not have enough time to address the matter. Despite this, the process of removing the trees has been underway.
The lack of timely action by the staff in response to the HLC's request has raised concerns among the public and community members. The absence of the Italian stone pines from the agenda, despite public speakers' repeated efforts, highlights the need for transparency and communication in preserving Santa Barbara's historic landmarks.
It is crucial for all stakeholders to be involved in decisions.
We spend multiple million dollars creating recreational bike lanes, with monies intended for street repairs. They’re removing trees all over town, many to accommodate bike lanes.
They are elitists thinking you must be rich to be a golfer.
So sad that they are so disconnected from the community and it’s history.
Sad, smart and hilarious column. And the more irreverence I see about SB’s mostly-unused bike lanes the happier I am.