What it says:

In March of 2024, Santa Barbara County and the City of Goleta reached a settlement with UC Santa Barbara over inadequate, securing $3.7 million for community projects and improving substandard housing.

The settlement dedicates $600,000 for the establishment of an Isla Vista Housing Inspection Pilot Program that will begin next summer, enabling the county to address tenant issues such as black mold, broken fences and balconies, and other common code violations. The program will allow the county to ensure that buildings meet safety standards and to file
complaints on behalf of tenants. Another $600,000 will fund legal and tenant-related services.

The rest of the funds will go towards the improvement of street lighting and pedestrian infrastructure ($1.46 million), upgrades of community facilities ($25,000), and the construction of a permanent public restroom along Del Playa Drive ($500,000). As part of the settlement, UCSB also committed to constructing workforce housing and adding 3,500 new student housing units in the coming years.

What this means for Isla Vista Residents:

1. Improved Housing Conditions:
   • Housing Inspection Pilot Program ($600,000)
     • If you’re living in an apartment in Isla Vista with black mold or a wobbly balcony, the new Housing Inspection Pilot Program will allow the county to inspect your unit and hold landlords accountable for making necessary repairs. For instance, if your landlord ignores your complaints about a broken fence or leaking pipes, the program can intervene on your behalf to ensure your home is safe and meets code standards.
     • The program’s ability to intervene on tenants’ behalf and ensure buildings are up to code will enhance living conditions and improve tenant safety.
2. Enhanced Legal Support for Tenants:
   • Legal and Tenant Services ($600,000)
     • If your landlord refuses to return your security deposit without cause or tries to evict you illegally, the $600,000 for legal and tenant services will provide access to resources that can help you file complaints or even take legal action. Residents facing harassment from their landlord for reporting maintenance issues could receive assistance to resolve the situation.
     • Increased access to legal services will empower tenants to challenge exploitative practices common in high-demand rental markets like Isla Vista.
3. Safer Streets and Improved Infrastructure:
   • Mobility Plan Funding ($1.38M)
     • Increased funding for street lighting and pedestrian improvements will make Isla Vista safer, particularly at night.
     • Better-lit and pedestrian-friendly streets will benefit both residents and visitors, reducing car and bicycle accidents.
   • Del Playa Drive Public Restroom ($500,000)
     • A permanent restroom along Del Playa will improve public sanitation and help address longstanding concerns about cliff safety.
4. Long-term Housing Expansion:
   • UCSB’s Commitment to Build 3,500 Student Units:
     • With UCSB adding thousands of student housing units, fewer students will need to rent off-campus, which could reduce demand and stabilize rents in Isla Vista. This means less competition for housing and potentially fewer rent hikes.
   • Workforce Housing:
     • Building workforce housing will address the needs of UCSB employees, reducing competition with students and other renters in Isla Vista for existing housing stock.