Citizens Planning Association

of Santa Barbara County

County-wide advocates for wise, sustainable land-use.

Our Mission Statement

Citizens Planning Association (CPA) is a nonprofit grassroots organization that focuses on countywide land use issues. We advocate for the best standards of design and natural resource protection in order to maintain sustainable communities and protect the heritage of Santa Barbara County.

To further this mission we inform, educate, and engage with residents and decision makers; encourage citizen involvement; and serve as a watchdog for our priority objectives.

Monday Speaker Series

Lisa Carlos – now online

View the Video – Passcode: fk?$c76a

About Us

We are a nonprofit grassroots organization focusing on countywide land use issues.

We advocate for the best standards of design and natural resource protection in order to maintain sustainable communities and protect the heritage of Santa Barbara County.

Events

Monthly Events

1st Monday: Speakers Series, noon via zoom

1st Thursday: North County Land Use Committee Meeting: locations vary

2nd Wednesday: Board Meeting at the office or zoom

4th Wednesday: South County Land Use Committee Meeting: CPA office at noon

No Events are currently scheduled

Get Involved

As a grassroots organization, to be strong and effective we need membership involvement.

There are a variety of opportunities to help make a difference in our community through volunteering at CPA.

The CPA Report for September 2025 is online.

Latest Monday Speaker Series

Laura Bridley Discusses Negative impacts of State Mandates on local decision makers and staff, December 1, 2025

Latest Letter

CPA Supports More Affordable Units at Paseo Nuevo. Council Agrees

03 December, 2025

To: Mayor Randy Rouse and City Council Members Re: Agenda Item 12; Proposed Disposition and Development Agreement between the City of Santa Barbara and Alliance Bernstein for the Redevelopment at Paseo Nuevo Dear Mayor and Councilmembers: Citizens Planning Association has made public comment about the Paseo Nuevo proposals at the prior public hearings, most recently at the Planning Commission meeting (See attached). We expressed concerns about compatibility, the need for more affordable units, and the issues with giving the developer city land. Both the Historic Landmark Commission and the PC found many problems with this pending agreement and we urge you to strongly consider their input. CPA appreciates the efforts of City Manager Kelly McAdoo...