County supervisors approve $9.2 million cut to Public Health Department
Santa Maria Sun
June 18, 2026
Santa Barbara County supervisors voted unanimously on June 16 to approve a $9.2 million cut to the Public Health Department—a move that will ripple through our local communities. Public Health Director Mouhanad Hammami recommended the reductions to address a structural deficit, worsened by shifts in federal and state Medi-Cal policies. For Santa Maria residents, this could mean fewer resources for disease prevention, health screenings, and community clinics that many families rely on.
As reported by the Santa Maria Sun, the decision came during the final round of budget hearings. While the county works to balance its books, the impact on our most vulnerable neighbors is a real concern. Local organizations and health advocates will be watching closely to see how these cuts affect services in North County. Stay informed and reach out to your supervisors if you have questions—our community's well-being depends on it.
This summary was written by AI based on the original article from Santa Maria Sun.
City
Santa MariaSource
Santa Maria SunPublished
June 18, 2026
AI-curated summary from local news sources
Explore Santa MariaAll Santa Maria NewsMore News from Santa Maria
Santa MariaWinning Images 2026
Calling all shutterbugs! The Santa Maria Sun is once again inviting local photographers to submit their best work for the annual Winning Images 2026 contest. From stunning Central Coast landscapes to candid street portraits, this beloved tradition showcases the unique beauty and quirky charm of our region. Whether you capture a dramatic sunset over Point Sal or a playful otter at the Santa Maria River mouth, this is your chance to see your work celebrated across the 805. Submissions are open across several categories, including Animals, Landscape/Seascape, In Motion, and People. Past winners have turned everyday moments into art—think fog rolling over the Santa Ynez Valley or a surfer carving through a wave at Jalama Beach. Entries are judged by a panel of local experts, so polish your portfolio and share your vision. It’s a wonderful way to connect with fellow photographers and show off why we love living here.
Santa MariaSolvang officials submit to new financial reporting after phone app backlash
Solvang is tightening its ethics rules after Mayor David Brown’s new phone app, Solvang Passport, caught some council members off guard. The app charges businesses a monthly fee to promote specific spots—raising questions about transparency and potential conflicts of interest. City officials have now agreed to update financial reporting requirements, a move first reported by the Santa Maria Sun. For locals, this is a reminder that even in a storybook town like Solvang, how we do business matters. The new rules aim to keep council decisions above board, especially as tech ventures blur the line between public service and private gain. It’s a small but significant step toward ensuring trust stays strong in our community.
Santa MariaRide on: After being closed for more than a month the Oceano Dunes reopened to vehicles and camping
The roar of engines is back at the Oceano Dunes. After more than a month of closure to vehicles and camping, the popular off-roading destination reopened on May 21, much to the relief of local business owners like Randy Jordan of SunBuggy Fun Rentals. For families and thrill-seekers across Santa Maria and the Central Coast, the dunes are more than a playground—they're a driving force for our local economy and a cherished piece of our coastal identity. As the Santa Maria Sun reported, the closure hit hard for outfitters who depend on the spring season. But now, with the gates open again, we can once again enjoy the unique blend of sand, surf, and adventure that makes our region special. Whether you're renting a buggy or just camping under the stars, it's a welcome sign that summer is truly here.