Santa Maria · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Santa Maria public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Measure C2026 Town Hall Meetings
The city will hold four town halls in September and early October to explain Measure C2026 and answer resident questions, with Spanish interpretation at each.
City Workforce Vacancies and Proposed Employee Concessions
City workers in SEIU Local 620 say they're being offered 0% cost-of-living raises and higher health costs while police and fire get increases. They packed the chamber asking the council to direct its bargaining team toward equity across units.
General Fund Reserve Policy and Section 115 Trust
The finance director proposed reworking the city's reserve targets and moving OPEB and pension reserve funds into a Section 115 trust for higher returns. The council pulled the item, wanting to weigh it alongside budget decisions given the city's deficit.
SEIU labor contract equity
City workers in SEIU Local 620 say they're being offered 0% cost-of-living raises and higher health costs while police and fire get increases. They packed the chamber asking the council to direct its bargaining team toward equity across units.
Solid Waste Collection Rate Increases 2026-2029
New disposal fee schedule for MarBorg Industries at the Santa Maria Regional Landfill, phased in through 2027.