Affordable housing has been out of reach for many of Santa Barbara's essential workers for years. As the county continues to work out how to meet its 2023-2031 state housing quota, educators from South County are urging county leaders to do everything in their power to prioritize and approve affordable housing projects so that the region’s workforce can afford to live in the communities where they work.
Last week, a coalition of South County schools and unions sent a letter to the Board of Supervisors emphasizing the growing need for affordable housing and the negative impact the high cost of living has had on Santa Barbara’s schools. They are planning to speak at the supervisors’ Housing Element meeting on Tuesday, February 14.
“It’s challenging to hire new staff members when those from outside the area see the cost of living here,” said Santa Barbara Unified School District Superintendent Dr. Hilda Maldonado. “Unfortunately, it is just not affordable.”