City News in Brief - August 22, 2022

Conducting Business at the City of Santa Barbara

After adapting to an evolved work environment due to the pandemic while maintaining public service, City offices have been and continue to be open for business. The Business Office/Cashier where community members can conduct transactions, like pay a utility bill, is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Because City Hall is closed every other Friday, most staff work a 9/80 shift, or 9 hours a day instead of the standard 8-hour-day. Even when City Hall is closed, the community can still take care of many of its business and service needs by mail, phone, or online.

John Pitman Prize for Historic Preservation

Earlier this month, the City’s Architectural Historian, Nicole Hernandez, MFA, and former Historic Landmarks Commissioner, William T. Mahan, FAIA, were presented the John Pitman Memorial Award by The Santa Barbara Conservancy for their continuing service and dedication for being a tireless voice for preservation.

The Library Invites Local Students to Participate in the Santa Barbara Reads Science Fair

The Library invites local students, ages eight to 18, to submit science fair experiments or projects to be featured in the October 2022 Science Fair, as part of Santa Barbara Reads programming. This year’s featured title for SB Reads is The Fifth Season by N.K. Jemisin and students are encouraged to submit a project that follows the scientific method. Applications are due by October 5.

Chapala Street Vision Zero Project

This week, the City will be paving Chapala and Arrellaga Streets as part of the Chapala Street Vision Zero Project. Vision Zero is the City’s goal to eliminate traffic collisions, reducing serious or fatal injuries. About 77% of serious and fatal injuries happen on just 19% of City roadways, including Chapala Street, making this corridor the highest priority.

Assistance Available for SLIP Participants through VAP

Residential City-initiated SLIP cases may be eligible to receive up to $300 in assistance towards the inspection of their private sewer lateral through the City’s Video Assistance Program (VAP) when using the City’s contracted inspector. Apply and schedule the inspection through our staff on our website.

Need to Know