Santa Barbara County leaders approved a $1.66 billion budget Tuesday after hours of presentations and public comment, with officials acknowledging the county faces increasing financial pressures from rising costs and uncertainty surrounding state and federal funding.

County Budget Challenges

County Executive Officer Mona Miyasato described the spending plan as more challenging than budgets in recent years but said it positions the county to weather future uncertainty. The budget includes the elimination of nearly 300 positions, most of which are currently vacant, as county officials work to address rising labor costs and concerns over future funding.

Miyasato acknowledged the impact the changes could have on county employees and their families. Members of the public urged supervisors to ensure budget challenges do not come at the expense of vital community programs. One Santa Maria resident voiced concerns over the closure of a local pharmacy, while youth advocates called for more investment in programs funded by cannabis tax revenue.

Despite financial pressures, supervisors approved funding for additional Sheriff’s Office resources, youth education programs, behavioral health initiatives, and a new film commissioner position. Supervisor Laura Capps said the county should continue exploring opportunities to maximize outside funding sources.

Original reporting: KEYT (Ventura/Santa Barbara) — read the source article.