Edhat Staff
Source: County of Santa Barbara
January’s winter storm and subsequent debris flows forever changed the landscape in and around Montecito, but those who live and work there say the devastating event has bolstered their determination to come out of the disaster better and stronger. In an effort to capture that spirit, community members are being afforded an opportunity to voice their thoughts on how to rebuild.
First District Santa Barbara County Supervisor Das Williams said he believes it is important to include the guidance of residents, business owners, and employees in future efforts to rebuild areas damaged or destroyed in the storm. The result is an online survey where community members can describe the types of things they would like to see included in a recovery and rebuilding plan, and to share their interest in being involved.
“What has transpired in Montecito over the last three weeks has been a nightmare, but we now have an opportunity to respond to this nightmare as a community and harness the astounding creative, philanthropic energy here to create a stronger, more resilient Montecito for the future,” Williams said. “To make this happen, we need the involvement of every single person who is willing to put in the work.”
Williams encourages everyone who lives, works, or owns a business in Montecito to take the online survey and provide their thoughts and ideas about what they would like to see as the process of rebuilding begins. The survey, which is available through February 12, 2018, also allows participants to indicate their desired level of participation in the ongoing planning process. The levels include:
Lead – willing to attend meetings, be regularly involved and help develop plan
Partner – willing to support the leaders and be involved, but not able to be involved on a regular basis
Follow – interested in helping out but needs more information before making any commitments
Honor – appreciates the effort but is not able to be involved at this time
After the survey is completed, those who indicate a willingness to actively participate in developing a vision and plan will begin by reviewing and discussing all of the collected comments and suggestions.
Community participants involved in the planning process will have an influential voice with county planners. The survey is available at the following link: www.countyofsb.org/bos/
I agree. There are places in mandatory but not in watersheds that did just fine. Rebuilding will happen. it should be smart and I am sure we can make it beautiful again. I don’t mind the idea of the low lands being nature preserve It would be a great way to add value and share paradise. I just hope all the open wiped out space does not turn into high density housing…
Montecito needs to rebuild. Since AFAIK the damage is primarily on private property the only people who should decide how to rebuild are those who are effected. All politicians, community members , busybodies, and know it alls should get no say. Each affected property owner will decide how they wish to rebuild. The best thing Mr Williams can do is cut the red tape and permit fees to allow them to do so as quickly as possible if they so wish. Everyone else can stay out of it.
Ok sounds good, just make sure you never give an opinion, thought, plan or idea to anyone regarding anything unless it is directly related to you. It’s only fair right?