City of Solvang Newsletter, May 6, 2026 | | |
What's Inside This Edition of Hej Solvang?
✅ Utilities Department Works Quietly and Reliably
✅ Public Safety Leaders Shine
✅ Emergency Operations Plan Update
✅ Alamo Pintado Road Rehab Project Begins
✅ Urban Boundary Committee Works for Future
✅ Parks & Rec Master Plan Survey Highlights
✅ Defensible Space Golden Garden Award
✅ And More ... summer safety tips, softball sign ups, elections registration, goats.
| | Serving Solvang: From Tap to Treatment | |
Dear Solvang Community,
Every day, our Utilities team works behind the scenes to ensure clean, reliable water service and the safe treatment of wastewater for the Solvang community. While much of this work goes unnoticed, it is essential to protect public health, support local businesses, and preserve the character of our city.
I am proud of the dedicated professionals who make up our Utilities Department. Their commitment to service, responsiveness during emergencies, and care for our infrastructure reflect the strong sense of responsibility they bring to serving the community they call home.
Though our work is best done quietly and reliably, please read on to learn more about who we are and what we do for Solvang.
| Two Divisions, One Team, Built on Experience | | |
Water Division, 47 Years of Combined Experience
Led by Mike Mathews, our Water Division delivers safe, high-quality drinking water to homes and businesses throughout Solvang. Behind the scenes, the Water Division is always busy. It maintains wells and water treatment systems, repairing water main breaks, replacing valves and hydrants and conducting water quality sampling and testing. Our team must diligently ensure compliance with state and federal regulations. We are also on-call 24/7 to respond to emergencies and maintain reliable service for the community.
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Wastewater Division, 70+ Years of Combined Experience
Led by Nathan Giacinto, our Wastewater Division is responsible for safely collecting, treating, and disposing of wastewater. The Wastewater Division operates the Wastewater Treatment Plant, performs routine inspection and cleaning of sewer lines, conducts down pipe CCTV inspections, maintains pump stations and manholes, and responds quickly to spills or system issues. The team’s work maintaining optimal operations is critical to protecting public health, groundwater, and the surrounding environment.
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Recent Project Highlight
Nyborg Estates Waterline Replacement
This project was completed within budget with minimal disruption to residents and very few change orders—reflecting the team’s strong planning, coordination, and commitment to delivering quality work.
Investing in Solvang’s Future
We are actively advancing several key projects to maintain and improve essential infrastructure, including:
- Citywide sewer CCTV inspections and system rehabilitation
- Wastewater Treatment Plant upgrades
- Lift station improvements
- Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) implementation
- HCA Middle Well construction
- HCA Detention Basin expansion
- Cross-Connection Control Program hazard assessments
These efforts support long-term reliability, regulatory compliance, and responsible resource management.
Looking Ahead
We will conduct a Water and Wastewater Rate Study, with results anticipated for community discussion by May 2027. Community input will be an important part of this process, and we look forward to engaging with residents along the way.
Our team takes great pride in serving Solvang and being part of this community. From responding to emergencies to planning for the future, we remain committed to delivering dependable service and protecting the resources we all share.
From tap to treatment—and everything in between—we are proud to serve you.
Yours in Public Service,
Jose Acosta,
Utilities Department Director
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Strong Partnerships Help Solvang Thrive
As part of our ongoing commitment to public safety and strong regional partnerships, "Hej Solvang" highlights two leaders who play a critical role in serving the Solvang community: Fire Chief Garrett Huff and Lieutenant Travis Henderson of the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office.
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Chief Garrett Huff
Chief Huff was appointed Fire Chief of the Santa Barbara County Fire Department in December 2025 following his service as Deputy Fire Chief. He brings more than two decades of experience with County Fire, with assignments spanning operations, Emergency Medical Services, aviation, training, and fire prevention. His connection to the Santa Ynez Valley runs deep, including prior assignments in Buellton and Santa Ynez and his leadership in the development of Solvang’s Fire Prevention Building. Just as importantly, Chief Huff brings a strong personal commitment to service; he and his family enjoy spending time outdoors, particularly hiking and fishing in the Sierras. He leads with a clear sense of responsibility to the communities he serves.
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Lt. Travis Henderson
Lieutenant Henderson has served with the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office for over 20 years and currently oversees police services for Solvang and Buellton, along with surrounding unincorporated areas. His career spans patrol, major crimes investigations, community policing, and specialized assignments, including the Special Enforcement Team and Crisis Negotiation Team. Lieutenant Henderson’s connection to Solvang is personal; his family calls the Valley home, and he is an active member of the community, from coaching youth sports to serving on local boards. His approach to policing reflects that connection: being accessible, building trust, and ensuring residents and businesses feel safe while preserving the character of the Valley.
| | | Together, Chief Huff and Lieutenant Henderson represent the strength of our regional public safety partnerships. Their leadership, experience, and personal investment in this community help ensure Solvang remains a safe and welcoming place to live, work, and visit. | | Preparing for Emergencies | | Helping Solvang Stay Safe: Emergency Operations Plan Update | |
Safety and preparedness go hand in hand. When we plan ahead, our ability to respond and recover from emergencies like wildfires, earthquakes, flooding, and power outages improves greatly.
That’s why the City of Solvang is updating its Emergency Operations Plan (EOP), one document that helps us anticipate and coordinate emergency response.
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Why A Local Emergency Preparedness Plan?
- Protecting lives and property
- Coordinating across agencies
- Providing clear public communication
- Supporting recovery after an incident
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Solvang’s unique character, including its rural surroundings, specific evacuation routes, and close-knit neighborhoods, means our plan must reflect local needs.
Over the coming months, the City will be working with emergency professionals and local stakeholders to ensure the EOP is practical, easy to use, and tailored to our community.
| | | Stay informed and engaged in emergency preparedness. | | Pavement Project Progress | |
Alamo Pintado Road Rehab Project Begins
April 20 - Aug. 1, 2026
7 a.m. - 5 p.m.
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Road rehabilitation and paving work as part of Project No. 25-002 is underway. This roadway improvement project includes Alamo Pintado Road, Fifth Street, Fourth Pl., Elm Avenue, Laurel Avenue, Alisal Road, Park Way, Molle Way, Soro, Odby, Aars, Fjord Road and the Alisal – Glen Neighborhood. To ensure the safety of crews and the public, significant traffic control measures will be in place.
This project is supported by Measure U, approved by Solvang voters, and Santa Barbara County’s Measure A transportation measure. Thank you for investing in your community.
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What to Expect and Where
Alamo Pintado Road, Solvang School Area, Alisal Road: Lane closures throughout. Traffic may be reduced to one lane with reversible control and flaggers to manage flow.
Alisal-Glen Neighborhood: For residents living on cul-de-sacs off Fjord Drive, these roads will be under complete closure during paving operations. For non-cul-de-sac roads like Fjord, Manzanita Drive, First Street, Juniper Drive, and Glen Way, traffic may be reduced to one lane with reversible control and flaggers to manage flow.
Downtown & Connecting Streets: Various alleys including Park Way, Molle Way Soro, Odby, and Aars will experience lane closures or full closures depending on the specific paving phase.
Hospital Access: Access to the Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital will always remain open to ensure emergency and medical services are not interrupted.
Important Instructions for Residents
Questions or concerns about deliveries? - Please coordinate with CalPortland: Samantha Lopez, (805) 345-3520.
Plan for Delays - Please allow extra time for travel and consider alternate routes where possible.
No Parking - "No Parking" signs will be posted 72 hours in advance of work in your specific area. Please ensure all vehicles are moved off the street during the posted working hours to avoid towing.
Pedestrian Safety First - For work involving curb ramps, temporary pedestrian access routes (TPAR) and escorts will be available to help residents safely cross work zones.
We appreciate your patience as we work to improve the city's infrastructure!
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Is your yard ready for fire season?
Everyone plays an important role in keeping the community fire wise and safe. This year, creating defensible space not only complies with municipal code, but it can qualify your garden for the “Den Gylden Have” or Golden Garden Award.
Let’s roll up our sleeves before summer heat and fire season
- Remove overgrown, dead, decayed, diseased, or otherwise hazardous vegetation.
- Ensure landscaping is not encroaching or overhanging on sidewalks or roadways.
- Trim trees to provide at least 8 feet of clearance
- Maintain trees overhanging roadways
- Cut grass or weeds to under 4 inches in height.
For more information on creating effective defensible space, please visit the Santa Barbara County Fire Department’s Ready, Set, Go! website.
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Nominate a garden for "Den Gylden Have" by June 1
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Most Beautiful – Honoring exceptional curb appeal and landscaping
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Most Drought-Tolerant – Recognizing water-wise landscaping and sustainable choices
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Exceptional Defensible Space – Highlighting outstanding upkeep and fire-safe practices
Residents are encouraged to nominate their own property or that of a neighbor. Winners will receive a high-quality framed certificate, a yard display sign, and recognition in the City newsletter and on social media.
| | Thank you to the Community for Being Fire Wise! | | |
Note to Skytt Mesa Property Owners on Sidewalk and Parkway Maintenance Responsibilities
The City of Solvang would like to clarify maintenance responsibilities for Skytt Mesa. Property owners in the Skytt Mesa subdivision are responsible for maintaining sidewalks, parkways, curbs, gutters, driveways, and any landscape overhang directly adjacent to each individual property under both Solvang Municipal Code § 8-2B-4 and the Skytt Mesa CC&Rs (Article V).
The CC&Rs also require tree root pruning to prevent damage to sidewalks and driveways. The Solvang Mesa LLMD does not cover the maintenance of driveways and sidewalks directly adjacent to each individual property. Corner lot owners must also maintain at least 10 feet of visual clearance at intersections under Solvang Municipal Code § 11–11–10.
If a City-maintained street tree is contributing to sidewalk damage, the City may be able to assist with root pruning or tree removal prior to your repair. Contact publicworks@cityofsolvang.com with your property address, a photo, and your anticipated repair date. Thank you for helping keep Solvang safe, accessible, and walkable!ct and compelling headline
| | Safe Home for Summer Travels | | |
Public Safety Corner
By Lt. Travis Henderson
Summer is almost upon us! Many of you are likely planning to travel. Have a great time! Also, please take a moment to read below and learn some easy steps you can take to deter would-be burglars while you’re away. When you return from your time away, Solvang will welcome you back!
Secure your home for summer travels
Turn on your lights - Timed automatic lights can deter would-be thieves. Dark homes may signal there is nobody home.
Lock your doors - This is the very first step to securing your valuables. Burglars are opportunists who take advantage of people’s sense of safety.
Keep your garage doors closed and secure - Garage doors, especially older styles, can be easy to overlook and a common entry point for burglars. Lock the rollup and side doors.
Don’t allow deliveries and mail to pile up - Do you enjoy the convenience of free home shipping? So do thieves! Piles of packages attract thieves. If you plan to be away for an extended period, place a hold your mail and any reoccurring deliveries.
Secure your windows and sliding doors - Don't skip this important step before departure. Also make sure these locks are in good working order.
Ensure your home alarm is functioning - Many homeowners installed their home alarm systems years ago or inherited the system from the home’s previous owner. Take the time to test your system and make sure your contact information is up to date with the service provider.
If you are looking for some added peace of mind while you’re away, you can register your address for Vacation Checks with your local deputies. In doing so, your address and information will be shared with your local deputies and will be prioritized for exterior checks while you are away. If you are interested in the process, please call the Solvang Sheriff’s Station at 805-686-5000. Our administrative staff will require your address, contact information, and the dates/times you plan to be away.
| | Urban Boundary Committee Update | |
Committee Advances Work on Solvang’s Future
The Solvang Urban Boundary Exploration Committee has officially begun its work, holding its first two meetings on April 2 and 23. This 13-member resident advisory group is taking a thoughtful look at Solvang’s long-term growth options, infrastructure needs, and the future of the City’s Urban Growth Boundary. The first meeting focused on Solvang’s history of annexation, growth management, and state housing requirements, helping establish a shared foundation for the work ahead.
At the second meeting, the committee shifted to the regulatory landscape, including a presentation from the Santa Barbara Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO). Members learned about the process and complexities involved in changing city boundaries, along with real-world case studies.
The committee’s work is designed to build from one meeting to the next. At the upcoming meeting on May 28, the group will explore the fiscal, infrastructure, and housing considerations that shape future boundary decisions.
Meetings are open to the public. We encourage residents to follow along and stay engaged as this important conversation continues. For meeting details, contact Olivia Uribe Mutal at oliviaum@cityofsolvang.com.
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Highlights from “Your Voice, Your Parks” Survey
As part of the beginning stages of the Parks and Recreation Master Plan, the City completed its “Your Voice, Your Parks” community survey, and the results make one thing clear: parks and open spaces are highly valued and widely used by our residents.
Community Feedback for Parks Master Plan
- Significant support for dog-friendly features, including a fenced, off-leash dog park, and improvements to multi-use recreational spaces.
- Respondents emphasized the importance of preserving natural elements like tree groves, native plantings, and creek access to maintain parks that feel open and connected to the environment.
- Community interest in a balanced approach to playgrounds, combining traditional equipment with inclusive and nature-based play opportunities.
- Preferences for water features were split between support for additions like splash pads and a desire for more conservative, low-water-use options.
- The general vision for future parks focuses on simple, welcoming spaces that prioritize shaded trails, comfortable seating, and natural landscapes.
The Parks and Recreation Master Plan will use this input to guide decision-making, prioritize projects, and position the City to pursue grant funding and partnerships, ensuring that future improvements reflect community values while remaining financially and environmentally sustainable.
Last month, the City put out a call for applications for a Parks and Recreation Master Plan Committee. The committee has been assembled and will begin meeting soon, helping to carry this process forward. Stay tuned for updates as their work gets underway.
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Goats on the Job at HCA Park
They’re baaaaaaaack! As part of our ongoing efforts to manage vegetation and reduce fire risk, goats have been hired for targeted weed abatement and are currently on-site at Hans Christian Andersen Park.
These goats are helping clear dry vegetation in an environmentally friendly way, reducing fire fuel loads without the need for heavy equipment or chemical herbicides. They are especially effective in hard-to-reach areas like hillsides and uneven terrain, where traditional methods can be more challenging and costly.
In addition to improving fire safety, goat grazing supports soil health, reduces emissions, and promotes sustainable land management practices. And of course, they bring a fun and unique element to the park—be sure to stop by and watch them in action (from a safe distance)! We do ask that you be respectful of their space, do not move/touch the fencing and do not feed the goats- they have plenty of food/work ahead of them!
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Welcoming the Wine Country Half Marathon
The Wine Country Half Marathon is coming to the Santa Ynez Valley on Saturday, May 9 from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Solvang residents can expect a lively and energetic atmosphere throughout the morning and early afternoon.
As runners make their way through our beautiful wine country roads, there will be increased activity in and around town, including temporary road closures, detours, and heavier traffic before and after the race. While access may be limited in some areas, the event brings an exciting opportunity to showcase the charm and scenic beauty of our community.
Many local residents proudly participate in the race, making it a great reflection of our community’s commitment to health, wellness, and enjoying the outdoors. If you’re nearby, consider stepping out to cheer on participants—it’s a fun and inspiring way to support your neighbors and be part of the day’s energy.
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It's CycleMaynia! Throughout the month of May, cycle-centric events will dot calendars in Santa Barbara County. The Santa Barbara County Association of Governments sponsors promotions throughout the month to encourage more cycling and enhance safety for everyone using the road.
Find a full listing of CycleMaynia events at https://cyclemaynia.org.
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Solvang CycleMAYnia Events
Wednesday, May 13
Bike to Solvang School, 7:4 a.m., Four Meeting Locations (more info coming soon at the website and social media accounts)
Thursday, May 14
Bike to Chamber Mixer, 5 - 7 p.m., The Hadsten, 1450 Mission Drive
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Cyclists ride free on SYVT
Great news for bike riders! SYVT has partnered with the Santa Barbara County Association of Governments by offering free fares to riders who load their bicycles onto the bus. All SYVT buses are equipped with bike racks. Bringing your bike along with transit helps reduce traffic, lower emissions, and support a more sustainable Santa Ynez Valley.
Visit syvt.com/Plan-Your-Trip for easy, step-by-step instructions on securing your bike. Visit smartride.org for a chance to win a monthly pass when you log your May bus+bike trips!
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Et par ting mere
(A few more things)
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Calling City Council Candidates!
Interested in serving your community as an elected official? The City of Solvang encourages residents to consider running for City Council in the upcoming November 3, 2026 General Municipal Election.
Serving on the City Council is an opportunity to help shape local policies, represent your district, and contribute to Solvang’s future. The City operates under a Council/Manager form of government, in which elected officials provide policy direction and the City Manager oversees day-to-day operations.
To be eligible, candidates must be at least 18 years old, a U.S. citizen, and a registered voter residing within Solvang city limits (and within the applicable district for Council seats).
The nomination period opens in mid-July and runs through early August. During this time, candidates complete required paperwork, gather signatures from registered voters, and file official documents with the City Clerk. Campaign finance rules may also apply depending on fundraising or spending levels.
Whether you are ready to take the next step or just exploring the idea, reaching out early is the best way to get informed and prepared. The City Clerk’s Office is available to help guide you through the process.To contact city clerk Annamarie T. Porter, call (805) 685-7764 x206, or email aporter@cityofsolvang.com.
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Back in the Swing of Softball at Sunny Field Park
Batter up! Sign ups for adult softball leagues open May 15 for up to eight teams in both the co-ed and men's divisions. The season begins on Tuesday, June 9.
Registration Links: Co-Ed Softball ︱ Men's Softball
Anyone interested in joining a team may contact jgragston@cityofsolvang.com to be put on the free agent list!
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