I hate Santa Barbara (San Diego, San Francisco: private schools, to live, restaurants)

[jzt83]

Originally Posted by rc251dc

Anger at big box stores - As alluded to previously to in this thread, there is no Wal-Mart, and a possible Target faced massive outcries. There is also a lack of cheap shopping (Kohls, Marshalls, etc). Yet, all the chain stores botiques that cater to the rich (Louis Vitton & Tiffany at La Cumbre, Saks 5th Avenue and Nordstrom downtown, etc) are totally cool in this city.

Reminds me of San Francisco. Wal-Mart and Target are evil, but Macys, Nordstrom, etc are okay. For SF, I think it's more about just hating Wal-Mart and Target mainly because they tend to have negative press and it's cool to hate such businesses. Meanwhile, Walgreens sells it's crap paying min wage and offering a limited selection of said crap at many dozens of locations in the city.

[rc251dc]

Originally Posted by jzt83

Reminds me of San Francisco. Wal-Mart and Target are evil, but Macys, Nordstrom, etc are okay. For SF, I think it's more about just hating Wal-Mart and Target mainly because they tend to have negative press and it's cool to hate such businesses. Meanwhile, Walgreens sells it's crap paying min wage and offering a limited selection of said crap at many dozens of locations in the city.

Yep, it's the classic hypocrisy that's all too common among the liberal elite of San Francisco. I remember when the Oakland Wal-Mart opened up and 11,000 people applied for 400 jobs that store was offering. It's funny that Wal-Mart was doing a lot more to help people in the Bay Area get jobs than the government.

Anyway, can someone challenge my comments of Santa Barbara, pretty please? I often post what I posted a couple posts ago on independent.com, a local newspaper, and usually the discussion dies after that. Surely someone can defend SB?

[mesaverde]

Ha! Great thread... rc251dc, that was an awesome post on the last page. I love your word "envirohypocrites" LOL. I can't say that I disagree with that.

I'm not sure about defending SB, but I can certainly add some comments about my own love/hate relationship with the city. I've lived there almost exclusively since the early 1980s. I guess I'll start off with my "issues".

First, there's a joke about living in Santa Barbara. You get married, you move. I myself experienced this because prior to marriage, it was fine for me to rent, but there is a tendency to want to settle down, have kids and buy a house after you marry. Of course, buying a house in Santa Barbara is now almost impossible (well, granted the market has slid finally), but still, median price is way out of most people's range.

One other valid concern is that the middle class is disappearing there. You have the service industry type people that live in the rental units, and then you have the business owner or executive types who own. This is not true across the board, but it is largely true for anyone who was looking to live there after the early 1990s. I have many friends who did buy then, and then it was still possible to get an older home for the mid 300s. One friend's home on the Mesa, which she did purchase in the early 90s in the mid 300s, is now worth over 1 million. Another couple I know bought in the same range in the La Cumbre area, sold at almost the peak for about 800K and quit their jobs for several years and just traveled. They relocated and paid cash for their new home. So, there was a window, but I was not married then, and missed it. By the time I was even remotely interested in buying anything, median price was around 700K. Nowadays, if you own there it's because you either bought before the mid 90s, or inherited the property. I worked in Human Resources for many years there, and recruiting was a real problem, even for the hospitals soliciting doctors, because professionals would take one look at the home prices, and realize they would have to come way down in their standard of living to make the move. That being said, there is always the weather and the beauty of the place, so for some, that was fine. But in terms of recruiting, it remains an issue.

So, what happens with jobs that the middle class traditionally occupy in the city, is that many need to commute in from Ventura or Lompoc. This includes most of Santa Barbara's city personnel, including fire and police. I've long been concerned about what would happen if a major disaster happened, cutting off Santa Barbara, since all we have into there is the 101 Freeway, unless you count Highway 33/150 in from Ojai (which becomes gridlocked the few times the 101 has been shut down). You could have a situation where emergency personnel could not get into the city. But the point is that it's very, very difficult for the middle class to survive there now. I know this from personal expereince. Plus, I agree that with so much commuting, it's not good for the environment, especially the fact that the 101 freeway is still just two lanes in either direction from the south, and there is incredible gridlock every work day.

Yes, Santa Barbara is tight on growth, but in it's defense, there's not too many places for it to grow. You've got the ocean and the mountains and the only real choice for growth is Goleta, and they (as anyone who lives there knows) have been extremely conservative in growth projections. The one thing that was difficult for me, was how on top of everyone you are there. The living spaces are very dense, especially in the city, but also in Goleta too.

As far as "big box" stores go, I agree. I've long been aggrivated by the need to drive 45 mintes south to get to affordable shopping. Santa Barbara does cater to the upscale customer, and their stores reflect that. It used to be that it was mostly the State Street area, but now the La Cumbre mall is becoming very upscale too. Out went the Marie Calandar's and the Red Robin's, in came Ruth's Cris Steakhouse. Before we moved to Camarillo (45 mins. south) last year, we saw many of the "family friendly" restaurants go out. With a (then) four year old, the choices were limited for us unless we wanted to go downtown, and deal with parking. (The State Street / tourist area IS "family friendly" for the most part, but it's very crowded depending on time of year, so locals usually opt for the La Cumbre area or Goleta for eating out).

I also continued to be frustrated by how hard it is to get new businesses in there. There was the massive outcry against Target (Target lost), which has already been discussed, but the very difficult thing for me to understand is why oh why they would not allow Whole Foods in! Whole Foods has an entire plan for their space, including putting in amenities that would beautify and upgrade the area for existing residents, and improve the environment. It would be bringing in an affordable option to the only other organic store in town (Lazy Acres) which was bought by the Alberston's corporation years back and in my opinion, gone down in quality and up in price since then. A little competition would be a good thing.

Now, as far as what I find wonderful about Santa Barbara, other than the fact my life has been there for so many years, so much so that I have many wonderful memories and friends there....let me try and give it a whirl!

I love that Santa Barbara is a tourist town. On any given day, you can meet people from all over the world. I can remember working on Anacapa Street and walking down to the beach on my lunch hour, and running into busses full of people from everywhere and having great conversations.

Another great feature of Santa Barbara (again, in large part due to the tourism) is the restaurants. There is literally every kind of food imaginable and you will never run out of places to go. (My comments about the "family friendly" aspect still stand.)

Farmer's Market. More a feature of being in California, in that we have an almsot 10 month growing season, but the SB & Goleta Farmer's Markets are some of the very best I've ever seen.

The Hispanic heritage. There is a real sense of culture and lots of wonderful events to celebrate that culture, all year long. The Spanish architecture is a beautiful feature of the city.

Oak Park's Festivals. Every imaginable ethinicity has a festival all year long. There is the Greek Festival, the German Festival, The Irish Festival, etc., etc. What a wondeful atmostphere to walk around, sample the food and watch the entertainment. Mostly free (unless you buy food) and the culture is free to soak up. I used to live on Alamar, and could walk to these festivals. They are some of my very best memories of Santa Barbara.

Beauty. You've got the mountians and the beach. All within minutes. Yeah, some people don't like the tar on the beaches, but it's a small price to pay. As far as swimming in the ocean goes, I can't speak to that. I like to be on the water, not in it!

The Harbor. It's realively cheap to rent a sailboat or kayak and cruise around the harbor or open ocean. Maybe you have to be an ocean lover to truly appreciate how amazing this is, but I've always been awed by the ocean and feel a truly wonderful connection to it.

Mexican food. Santa Barbara has some of THE best Mexican food, bar none. La Super-Rica Taqueria and El Rincon Bohemio come to mind.

Well, now that I've written a novel, I hope anyone considering Santa Barbara will find this post helpful!

Lauren

[Snort]

Lauren,
This is only your 5th post? I nominate you for super-moderator, la presidente de city-data. Great post!

[mesaverde]

LOL! Thanks, Snort!

[Oerdin]

Originally Posted by rachelinala

I'm a travel nurse & was in the bay area for a few months. I loved San Francisco. Now I'm stuck in this horrible little town called Santa Barbara.

Santa Barbara is great and if you hate it then I'm sure they hate you too. I loved living there and they have one of the highest percentages of millionaires compared to the whole population. It's a great little town.

[Oerdin]

Originally Posted by rc251dc

Yep, it's the classic hypocrisy that's all too common among the liberal elite of San Francisco.

It has nothing to do with liberals, genius, and instead has to do with social class. I.E. a town is dominated by multimillionaires so they want what they want but they don't want the rabble/common people around. Wake up and smell the class conflict.

[SumGy]

Originally Posted by rachelinala

There aren't any upscale car dealerships here that aren't in any other city in America. I have lived all over the country and they are everywhere, so don't feel special. They are all small & the service is overpriced. I have an Audi and can't believe the horrible service I received @ the dinky dealership.

Oprah lives on an estate, it's not like she lives in one of the neighborhoods with overpriced small ugly homes.

For such a small city, yes I am very surprised that the downtown is mainly a hang out for homeless people. In larger cities that is expected.

As for the shopping, it sucks. Luckily they have a Nordstrom & Saks, but they are both pretty disappointing in size & selection.

I love California in general. I just hate this city. I think it's very overrated and it didn't meet my expectations. Lake Tahoe is beautiful as is the entire bay area. I was just venting.

And I'm not alone. Most of the other travel nurses I work with say it's very boring and don't like it here either. Hate to burst your little bubble.

The restaurants downtown aren't any good either. The one restaurant, Bouchon, that is suppose to be wonderful...isn't. What a waste of $200! Not to mention bad service. Another overrated & overpriced place here in Santa Barbara. Just like the disgusting "taco stand" La Super Rica!

Oh and I forgot to mention something This ugly place is called the Mediterranean of America? Please.

But, like I said earlier, maybe if you're retired you will like it. I do see a lot of old men with wives clearly 20-30 years their junior here. Kind of funny to watch, but I guess this is the norm here? So pathetic.

And, yes I am forced to be here under contract. I'm hoping I can try Laguna Hills next assignment or go back to San Fran. What do you think? Thanks for the replies btw All very helpful!

well, rachelinala.
Perhaps you'd best try the 15 dollar Natural Cafe or 20 dollar Sojourner restaurant locations. They're sure to offer more balanced diet offerings.

Shopping? How's about Tri-County Produce or the Farmer's Market. If you'd like more variety, head on over to Lazy Acres.
Oh, you're particular about clothes? Silly.
What worldly and sentimental person can't spot a personality and future joyful companion wearing overalls?

Bored in SB? Try participating in the Sunday World Cup road ride. Get owned, and come back feeling like the experience was understimulating.
Go talk to one of Lance Armstrong's mechanics over at FastTrack bicycles and talk about Lance's favorite place in the US to train? (Santa Barbara - Hmm)
Try prolonged heart-rates above 95% threshold anywhere near LA or SF and you'll realize that those places are not healthy. Of course air quality isn't of high concern to a smoker, is it?

Create culturally changing videos and upload them to youtube, advancing our overcrowded culture to a more sustainable and communal one.

Get out of the sick ward and hike the trails in the mountains nearby. Hike up Cold Springs Trail or go running in the montecito hills with a trail running group.

If you'd like to buy a home, consider the private community Hope Ranch, or purchase a lot on top of the mesa which overlooks the ocean.

Cottage Hospital is in the middle of the ghetto.
Don't be scared by the health warnings at the beach...unless you're too strung out on hospital drugs to have a decent immune system.
And use a tar removing soap like Gojo...a natural, smell-good, cleaner. You can buy it by the gallon at an automotive store.

SB is expensive because people appreciate certain aspects more than you clearly do. Manhattan Beach, SF, that little place near LA? I'm happy I don't live in those places.

Santa Barbara. Clean Air. Beautiful views from the top. Surrounded by natural beauty to those who seek it. Slower Lifestyle pace with moderate sophistication.

We don't need any more dirty smokers in our soft, beautiful town.

[Winston Smith]

Originally Posted by SumGy

well, rachelinala.
Perhaps you'd best try the 15 dollar Natural Cafe or 20 dollar Sojourner restaurant locations. They're sure to offer more balanced diet offerings.

Shopping? How's about Tri-County Produce or the Farmer's Market. If you'd like more variety, head on over to Lazy Acres.
Oh, you're particular about clothes? Silly.
What worldly and sentimental person can't spot a personality and future joyful companion wearing overalls?

Bored in SB? Try participating in the Sunday World Cup road ride. Get owned, and come back feeling like the experience was understimulating.
Go talk to one of Lance Armstrong's mechanics over at FastTrack bicycles and talk about Lance's favorite place in the US to train? (Santa Barbara - Hmm)
Try prolonged heart-rates above 95% threshold anywhere near LA or SF and you'll realize that those places are not healthy. Of course air quality isn't of high concern to a smoker, is it?

Create culturally changing videos and upload them to youtube, advancing our overcrowded culture to a more sustainable and communal one.

Get out of the sick ward and hike the trails in the mountains nearby. Hike up Cold Springs Trail or go running in the montecito hills with a trail running group.

If you'd like to buy a home, consider the private community Hope Ranch, or purchase a lot on top of the mesa which overlooks the ocean.

Cottage Hospital is in the middle of the ghetto.
Don't be scared by the health warnings at the beach...unless you're too strung out on hospital drugs to have a decent immune system.
And use a tar removing soap like Gojo...a natural, smell-good, cleaner. You can buy it by the gallon at an automotive store.

SB is expensive because people appreciate certain aspects more than you clearly do. Manhattan Beach, SF, that little place near LA? I'm happy I don't live in those places.

Santa Barbara. Clean Air. Beautiful views from the top. Surrounded by natural beauty to those who seek it. Slower Lifestyle pace with moderate sophistication.

We don't need any more dirty smokers in our soft, beautiful town.

All very well said, but pointless to someone enamored with "communities" like south OC or SCV.

Similarly, the Funk Zone wouldn't mean much either, but what's the reason Santa Barbara is a bit different again?

[rc251dc]

Mesaverde, thanks a lot for your thorough and in-depth post, lots of good information. I wanted to resoind to a few things you said:

1) Completely agree on everything you said about the disappearing middle class. It's a real problem in the city

2) As far as growth goes, yeah, there aren't that many places to expand, however, it is possible even without encroaching on coastal lands. I understand the outrage over the possible Naples development, because it will ruin a pristine coastline and make private beach access. However, that describes a lot of Santa Barbara! Hope Ranch anyone? That ruined a pristine coastline and also created private beach access. Santa Barbara is all about this. However, there are some places which can be developed, the biggest one being Bishop Ranch, which could be best described as infill property between Glen Annie and Los Carneros. A lot of the complaints I saw were about traffic. Well hello? Stop driving your cars and take the bus! Maybe then traffic wouldn't be a problem.

3) The Whole Foods actually did infact gain approval. It was a long fight and they made concessions but they did win and will be taking over the now vacant Circuit City lot. However, there's still a lack of affordable shopping in Santa Barbara. I'm hoping that the recession will cause a lot of those upscale businesses to tank. I still think that the opposition to big box retailers is not for moral reasons or for protecting local businesses, but it's a disdain for the poor. A Saks symbolizes a wealthy town. A Wal-Mart signifies poor people and blight. Santa Barbara wants to keep it's "botique" image at the expense of poor people.

Originally Posted by Oerdin

It has nothing to do with liberals, genius, and instead has to do with social class. I.E. a town is dominated by multimillionaires so they want what they want but they don't want the rabble/common people around. Wake up and smell the class conflict.

That's why I was careful in saying "liberal elite" and not "liberals". My definition of "liberal elite" are very wealthy liberals who want to keep a high image of wealth in their communities. Even though poor people are required in all communities (houskeepers, gardeners, maids for example), these millionaires want to pretend that such people do not exist and don't deserve the services that would be beneficial for them.