City News & More

Meet Brenda Robinson, our New Accounting Specialist

We are pleased to introduce the newest member of our City staff, Brenda Robinson, Accounting Specialist in the Administrative Services/Finance Department. Brenda brings nearly 10 years of public sector accounting experience and a broad set of skills, including accounts payable and receivable.

Tell us a little bit about your professional life leading up to this position.  

I was with the City of Goleta for seven-plus years and before that I was with the Santa Barbara School District for five years. All working with the Finance Departments.

What do you like to do in your spare time? 

When I’m not working, I enjoy walking my dog Sheba, bike riding, snow skiing, and water sports. I also enjoy reading for quiet time and to stay on top of recent news and events.

Do you have a fun fact you’d like to share? 

The first time I ever boogie boarded was on Carpinteria Beach when I moved to the Santa Barbara area in 1988. I was with a newly made friend who had three young boys that talked me into boogie boarding. The problem was I did not have a swim suit on (as this was not in my plan) so I went for it wearing my jeans and T-shirt! That was challenging and exhilarating!

Meet Jesus Montiel, our New Engineering Tech

Our Public Works Department includes a new friendly face! We recently added Jesus Montiel to our team in the role of Engineering Technician, where he will be responsible for processing Engineering Permits and assisting our Public Works Director with additional tasks. Montiel holds a degree from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo where he majored in Civil Engineering with an emphasis in Structures. He lives in Santa Maria and will split his time between working remotely and at City Hall. 

What inspired you to pursue engineering?

Math has always been my favorite subject in all my years of school, and I’ve always enjoyed the problem-solving aspect that comes with it. Also, I always thought it would be cool to be involved in designing a bridge, and so that’s why I specifically chose Civil Engineering.

What appealed to you most about coming to work for the City of Carpinteria?

Well, a good friend of mine actually recommended that I apply for this position. She mentioned that it was a great opportunity to learn a lot of different things, and she also talked about how great the staff here is. 

What do you like to do in your spare time?

I am a huge sports fan, so I enjoy watching a lot of sports while I’m at home. My favorite sports to watch are football, soccer, baseball and MMA (UFC). Other than that, I just like to hang out with my two Frenchies, family or friends!

We have Summer Jobs to Fill!

If you are looking for a fun, part-time job working outside and with kids, we have the position for you! The City of Carpinteria is preparing to hire its seasonal pool and beach lifeguards, Junior Lifeguard instructors, swim lesson instructors and cashiers. These positions offer training, great experience, and flexible hours. You will be joining a dynamic, welcoming team that protects lives and teaches kids how to do the same. Learn more about how to become a beach lifeguard or JG instructor Here and how to become a pool lifeguard Here.

February is Black History Month

The Carpinteria City Council unanimously passed a proclamation on Jan. 23 to designate February 2023 as Black History Month. Black History Month is not just about the struggles Black families have been through, but rather it is a time of rejoicing, celebrating the accomplishments, integrity, leadership, and determination, and showing true character. The City honors the history and celebrates the progress that our community has made. We are resolute in creating new opportunities for future generations.

Storm Assistance Available

Carpinterians who were impacted by the January 2023 storms can seek assistance and resources at either of two Disaster Recovery Centers (DRC)/Local Assistance Centers (LAC) now open. The DRC/LACs will be open at Allan Hancock College in Santa Maria and Direct Relief in Santa Barbara, seven days a week, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. at both locations. The Santa Barbara Center will be in operation through Feb. 15, with a temporary closure from Feb. 8 -10. The Santa Maria location will be open through Feb. 26. Spanish, ASL and Mixteco interpreter services will be present. The sites are also accessible to people with disabilities and those with access and functional needs. The centers are a one-stop shop where disaster survivors can get information and guidance from state and federal agencies. More information, including transit options, is available Here in English and Here in Spanish.

It’s Swim Team Tryout Time!

If your kids love the water, have swim skills they are looking to improve, and could use a healthy, fun after school activity, please check out the Carpinteria Aquatics Club. The club will hold swim tryouts on Tuesday, Feb. 21 and Thursday, Feb. 23 from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. at the Carpinteria Community Pool, 5305 Carpinteria Ave. Our Swim Team is for ages 6 to 17, and participants must be able to swim prior to becoming a team member. Registration is required for tryouts and can be completed HERE. Anyone with questions may contact Leilanie at [email protected]/.

New EV Charging Stations Coming Soon

Next week the City of Carpinteria will be replacing two of its existing electric vehicle charging stations, which will cause a temporary interruption of service on Wednesday, Feb. 15. The charging stations at City Hall and the public parking lot on Cactus Lane will be removed and replaced. The new stations will be operated by EV Connect, which you can learn more about HERE. In addition to these two dual port stations, in the coming months 10 additional ports, also operated by EV Connect, will be installed in the public parking lot on Ninth Street and Elm. That project is currently in the permitting phase. For questions, contact [email protected] or (805) 880-3415.

Mark Your Calendar

Home Energy Efficiency Workshop

This free online workshop offers Central Coast residents an opportunity to learn about new programs and incentives to help them improve energy efficiency in their home. Scheduled for Thursday, Feb. 16, from 6 to 7 p.m., the workshop will focus on actions you can take to reduce carbon pollution, save money, and improve indoor air quality.

Register

Building Electrification Workshop

This free online workshop will focus on proposed Building Electrification Ordinances for New Buildings for the Cities of Goleta and Carpinteria, and the County of Santa Barbara. The workshop will take place on Tuesday, Feb. 21, at 1 p.m. and will cover a wide range of topics related to building electrification.

Register