Santa Barbara's 2025 Urban Water Management Plan

Dear Councilmember Friedman, On June 16, 2026, the Santa Barbara City Council adopted the 2025 Urban Water Management Plan (UWMP) and the 2025 Water Shortage Contingency Plan (WSCP). These plans detail the city's strategies for managing water resources, including groundwater, to ensure a reliable water supply during drought conditions. The UWMP outlines the long-term balance of water supply and demand through 2050, taking various scenarios into account. It’s crucial that constituents are able to provide feedback on these plans, particularly regarding groundwater management, water conservation targets, and drought response strategies. As a resident of Santa Barbara and a taxpayer, I care deeply about how these plans will affect our community. The management of our water resources is not just a technical issue; it directly impacts our quality of life, especially during droughts. I want to know how you plan to engage with the community to ensure their voices are heard as these plans are implemented. Public participation is essential to address the specific needs of our residents and ensure that resources are managed effectively. What is your position on the 2025 UWMP and WSCP, and how do you intend to support community involvement in these plans? Sincerely, Eric Rosenfeld