Want to know what happens after you return your ballot? Watch the behind-the-scenes video to see how ballots are received, verified, and securely processed in

Santa Barbara County.

If you haven’t returned your ballot, now is the time. Use an official ballot drop box, return your ballot in person, or vote at your polling place on Election Day.

Find convenient drop box locations, polling places, and important election information

at SBCVote.com.

Don’t Panic, Prepare: Key Takeaways from the El Niño Community Meeting

From emergency alerts to flood preparedness, learn how Santa Barbara County is preparing for the season and what you can do now to protect your household.

Keep Thanksgiving

Safe from Kitchen

to Table

Learn how to prevent foodborne illness, reduce holiday waste, and extend the spirit of Thanksgiving through community service and food donations.

Sandbag Basics for Winter Storm Preparedness

Get prepared for the next storm by learning the safe and effective way to fill, stack, clean up, and dispose of sandbags.

Final Days to Experience Post-Wild: Nature in the 21st Century

Join artists and community members on Nov. 7 at Betteravia Art Gallery in Santa Maria to celebrate this thought-provoking exhibition.

Santa Barbara County Earns Highest State Arts Ranking

The County’s Office of Arts and Culture received the highest possible ranking from the California Arts Council, recognizing its leadership in expanding access to arts funding, programs, public art, professional development, and creative opportunities. The distinction also highlights the Office’s role in securing millions of dollars in support for local artists, nonprofits, youth programs, and community-based cultural initiatives throughout Santa Barbara County.

County Names New Director of Social Services

Maria Gardner has been selected as the next Director of Social Services, building on a 30-year career dedicated to expanding access to essential services and improving outcomes for County residents.

Pilot Program Strengthens Public Health and Safety

The County’s Sidewalk Vending Pilot Program delivered measurable improvements in food safety and roadway conditions while helping vendors understand how to operate legally.

Help Guide the Future of County Retirement Benefits

Qualified County residents are invited to apply for two vacancies on the Santa Barbara

County Employees’ Retirement

System Board. Applications are due

Friday, Dec. 4, 2026.

Sheriff’s Office Unveils Interactive Jurisdiction Map

A new online mapping feature helps community members identify jurisdiction boundaries and connect with the appropriate law enforcement agency for non-emergency reporting.

New Online Service Simplifies Vital Records Requests

The County Health Department’s new VitalDirector platform allows residents to order birth and death certificates online and have them shipped directly to their door.

November Employees of the Month: Behind the Numbers, Dedicated Public Service

From budget planning to disaster recovery funding, the County Executive Office Budget Team helps ensure critical County services remain strong and sustainable.

The Santa Barbara County District Attorney’s Office joined MADD (Mothers Against Drunk Driving) Tri-Counties and local law enforcement agencies for the Move With MADD 3K Walk at Chase Palm Park on October 18. The community came together to support safer roads, honor those impacted by impaired driving, and raise awareness about the importance of making safe choices behind the wheel. Together, participants raised $13,500 to support MADD’s mission to prevent impaired driving and help those affected by it.

The 2026 AFSP (American Foundation for Suicide Prevention) Out of the Darkness Community Suicide Awareness Walk was a tremendous success, achieving its largest participation in more than a decade. Coordinated locally by County Behavioral Wellness staff, the event brought together 383 registered walkers, 41 teams participating in honor or memory of loved ones. Together, participants and supporters raised $52,063.08 for suicide awareness and prevention through the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

In observance of Veterans Day, County offices will be closed on Wednesday, November 11. Regular business hours will resume the following day.

County offices will also be closed for the Thanksgiving holiday on Thursday, November 26, and Friday, November 27.Normal operations will resume on Monday, November 30.

Are you signed up for ReadySBC Alerts?

Stay in the know about actions you need to take during wildfires or other types of emergencies. Sign up or check your registration today at ReadySBC.org.