HACSB and SB Unified School District Partner to Build Housing for District Employees

For over a year, the Housing Authority and District staff have been looking for potential opportunities to develop housing for educators on land already owned by the District.

The committee reviewed income distribution for all households in Santa Barbara and how they relate to housing prices, surveyed District staff as to their housing needs, conducted a property-by-property review of all District-owned properties that are within the city limits of Santa Barbara, and provided a more in-depth look at the properties that hold the most promise for housing development.

The Parma School site at 915 E Montecito St, Santa Barbara, CA 93103, was selected as the best prospect. The site contains 0.66 acres and is located close to shopping, transportation, and schools. A preliminary architectural study indicates that a 40 to 45-unit development is feasible.

The project would be financed through the Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program, and no District funds would be needed.

The Housing Authority would act as developer and property manager on the project.

“Our community has long struggled to find affordable housing in the city. In partnering with Santa Barbara Unified School District, we’re harnessing collective strengths to address this need. The Parma School site is a promising step. As we progress, we aim not just to house our educators, but to inspire innovative housing solutions elsewhere. Together, we’re building a brighter future for Santa Barbara,” said Rob Fredericks, Executive Director of the Housing Authority of the City of Santa Barbara.

Together with the District staff, the Housing Authority held a community meeting for the neighbors of the proposed development at 915 E. Montecito St. on June 6, 2024 at the Franklin Elementary School.

Click here for the recording of the community meeting.

Click here for questions & answers from the community meeting.

Santa Barbara Independent article: Affordable Housing for Santa Barbara Unified Teachers and Staff Is in the Pipeline