Santa Barbara City Council Begins New Legislative Term

The City Council is sworn in, appoints leadership, and designates committee assignments.

The first Santa Barbara City Council of 2025 began with an Honor Guard presentation, followed by recognition of outgoing Councilmember Alejandra Gutierrez for her dedicated years of service. Remarks were shared by Councilwoman Gutierrez, Mayor Rowse, Councilmembers, and members of the public reflecting on her contributions as a City Council member. Newly elected Councilmember Wendy Santamaria, along with re-elected Councilmembers Mike Jordan and Oscar Gutierrez, affirmed their allegiance, received Certificates of Election, and shared their aspirations for the term ahead.

The City Council has elected Councilmember Eric Friedman as Mayor Pro Tempore (6-0). A full list of Committee, Agency, and Liaison assignments, including roles in the Ordinance Committee, Finance Committee, and Advisory Groups, can be found under Mayor and City Council.

Mayor & City Council:

• Mayor Randy Rowse (Term: Jan 2022 – Dec 2026)
• Wendy Santamaria, District 1 (Term: Jan 2025 – Dec 2028)
• Mike Jordan, District 2 (Term: Jan 2025 – Dec 2028)
• Oscar Gutierrez, District 3 (Term: Jan 2025 – Dec 2028)
• Kristen Sneddon, District 4 (Term: Jan 2022 – Dec 2026)
• Eric Friedman, District 5 (Term: Jan 2022 – Dec 2026)
• Meagan Harmon, District 6 (Term: Jan 2022 – Dec 2026)

Photos of the Santa Barbara City Council Swearing-In Ceremony – January 7, 2025.

Watch the January 7, 2025, City Council meeting in English or Spanish.

Regular City Council meetings are held on Tuesdays at 2:00 p.m. in City Hall Council Chambers. All City Council meetings are broadcast in English and Spanish on City TV YouTube and Cox Cable Channel 18. Spanish translation and transcription are also available on any smart device; instructions are posted on the meeting agenda and in Council Chambers.

For a list of upcoming meetings visit the City’s Public Meetings Calendar.