Santa Barbara MTD service reductions — where do you stand?

Dear Attorney General Bonta, In August 2026, Santa Barbara's Metropolitan Transit District (MTD) announced service reductions affecting over a dozen routes, including those serving Montecito, Old Town Goleta, the Santa Barbara Mesa area, and Ellwood. These cuts are a direct response to a projected $4.9 million budget shortfall for the current fiscal year, with only partial relief from federal pandemic assistance. The reduction in public transit services will impact many residents who rely on these routes for their daily commutes, access to essential services, and overall mobility throughout the region. As a resident of Santa Barbara who pays taxes here, I see the value that a robust public transportation system provides for our community. These cuts will disproportionately affect low-income individuals and those without alternatives for transportation. It's crucial for our local economy and community cohesion that we maintain these vital services. What is your position on the MTD service reductions? What actions do you intend to take to address this situation and ensure that residents in Santa Barbara have access to reliable public transit? Sincerely, Eric Rosenfeld