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.

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.

Latest Monday Speaker Series

Kelly McAdoo, SB City Manager, April 14, 2025

Latest Letter

CPA Urges the Use of Story Poles for 418 Milpas to Let the Public Know What is Proposed
Re: III. NEW ITEM: 418 N Milpas St. and 915-923 E. Gutierrez Street – (Milpas Gardens) Dear Planning Commission Members: Citizens Planning Association has worked in Santa Barbara City since 1960, with members from throughout the city. As our Mission says, “We advocate for the best standards of design … in order to maintain sustainable communities and protect the heritage of Santa Barbara County.” CPA has consistently stressed the importance of public participation that can only come about with actual story poles.(1) It’s particularly important on the often-overlooked historic Eastside that all affected have the opportunity to see for themselves what is proposed for this area of single-story businesses and residences....
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Recent Letters