The Santa Barbara County Board of Supervisors approved a $1.66 billion budget on Tuesday, resulting in 77 layoffs, closure of two county pharmacies, and discontinuation of several healthcare services. 77 employees will lose their jobs, down from an initial 277 identified positions.
Two county-run pharmacies in Santa Barbara and Santa Maria will close, saving $8 million annually. County labs will end in-house blood draws, and specialty care services will be discontinued at the Santa Barbara clinic.
Supervisors set aside $812,000 to maintain the Isla Vista Foot Patrol despite sheriff’s recommendation to cut 12 positions. County officials hope the state budget will provide a lifeline to restore some services and rehire employees, but cautioned about ongoing risks from federal and state funding reductions.