Santa Barbara City Council Approves Charter Amendment Measure

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The Santa Barbara City Council has approved a resolution to call a special municipal election on June 2, 2026, where voters will decide on a proposed charter amendment to streamline approval of long-term city contracts and restore the city's flexibility in managing and leasing its public property.

Why it matters

This charter amendment is aimed at giving the city more agility in negotiating contracts and leases, which could help the city maximize the value of its public assets and properties. However, it also represents a shift in the city's governance model that some residents may want to weigh in on.

The details

The proposed charter amendment would modify Section 521 of the city's charter, which currently requires voter approval for any city contract or lease longer than 5 years. The new measure would remove this requirement, allowing the city council more flexibility in approving long-term agreements. The city has appropriated $195,000 from its general fund reserves to cover the costs of including the measure on the June 2 special election ballot.

• The Santa Barbara City Council approved the resolution to call the special election on February 3, 2026.
• The special municipal election is scheduled for June 2, 2026, in conjunction with the Statewide Direct Primary Election.

What’s next

Voters in Santa Barbara will decide the fate of the proposed charter amendment measure on June 2, 2026.