Santa Barbara City Hall Centennial: Honoring a Legacy of Service

Councilmember Oscar Gutierrez, Mayor Randy Rowse, Councilmember Alejandra Gutierrez, Councilmember Kristen Sneddon, and Councilmember Eric Friedman.

In 2024, the City recognizes the 100-year anniversary of its iconic City Hall, originally built to centralize city services and make them more accessible to residents. This centennial coincides with other significant 100-year milestones in the city: the construction of the Granada Theater, the Lobero Theater re-build, and the first Old Spanish Days celebration.

Construction of the new City Hall building, located within Plaza de la Guerra, began in 1922 and was completed in February 1924. The architectural firm of Sauter and Lockard was chosen to design the building, which was intended to accommodate more people and house the council chamber, the offices of the city clerk and city manager, and various departments, including fire, tax collection, treasury, water, engineering, planning, and building. It also featured the police department’s court with three jail cells.

City Hall 1925
Santa Barbara City Hall 1925. Courtesy: Gledhill Library, Santa Barbara Historical Museum
A new Historic Landmark plaque has been affixed to the exterior of City Hall, honoring its significance to the community and recognizing the generations of residents and public servants who have passed through its doors.
City Hall Historic Landmark Plaque. City of Santa Barbara Historic Landmark. Constructed 1924, Architect: Sauter and Lockard. Designated April 11, 2000.
City Hall Historic Landmark Plaque affixed 2024.

City Hall is now more accessible than ever, with many services available online and SB Connect bringing service requests directly to your fingertips. Residents can pay bills online, request services, obtain permits, access budgets and reports, and access community events.

City Hall 1940 with cars lining De La Guerra Street
City Hall 1940. Courtesy: Gledhill Library, Santa Barbara Historical Museum
City Hall 1954 with cars lining De La Guerra Plaza
City Hall 1954. Courtesy: Gledhill Library, Santa Barbara Historical Museum

For a complete listing of all City office and department hours, including public counters, visit the City Departments Page.

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