Santa Barbara is facing a severe housing shortage, with many struggling to afford the cost of living. Santa Barbara’s strict zoning, height limits, and overall slow growth mentality pose a barrier to change. However, many are calling for reforms in zoning to allow for more construction. The California government may enforce mandates if local governments do not meet the demand. KCSB’s Robert Stark speaks with Santa Barbara City Councilman Oscar Gutierrez about finding the right balance on zoning and how the city can accommodate more housing to address the affordability crisis.
