Burning Questions

November 12, 2025

What Are Those Old Buildings at the Corner of Castillo and Montecito Streets?

"There are some historic buildings adjacent to the liquor store. The one on Castillo is an enormous mansion painted a dull mustard color. If my attempt at research is in any way accurate, it was moved to that location to avoid demolition. There it stands, seemingly vacant. Maybe you can get the lowdown." 1

September 24, 2025

When Will the Coast Village Road Medians Be Completed?

"Once the electrical upgrade (at least that's what appears to be happening) is completed, what's the plan for landscaping, if any? Have you heard anything?" 4

September 5, 2025

What’s This Scaffold Structure on Las Positas Road?

"What's the scaffold structure on Las Positas just north of Veronica Springs Road? There's communication gear attached to it."

August 25, 2025

Why Does Street Striping Take So Long to Happen?

"Many of Montecito's major streets—Hot Springs, San Ysidro, etc.—weren't repainted for at least a month after getting fog sealed. Why does the county wait so long? It seems dangerous to leave them unmarked." 3

August 11, 2025

Why Do Rocket Launches Look the Way They Do?

"A couple of weeks ago, we watched as the first stage of a rocket launch descended back toward Earth, and it was spectacular. I'd love to know more about what exactly I'm seeing, though. Why is it that shape? Why is the tail those colors?" 3

July 8, 2025

How Is the San Ysidro Debris Basin Designed to Work?

"It looks like the San Ysidro Debris Basin is done. Can you ask an engineer what the point of the three structures is?" 3

May 20, 2025

What’s This Building on Helena Avenue?

"Behind Helena Avenue Bakery and The Lark, there's an unmarked building next to the train tracks. What is it?" 2

May 12, 2025

What Are Those Old Pilings in Arroyo Burro Creek?

"There are old wooden pilings in Arroyo Burro Creek, just up from Hendry's Beach where it parallels the parking lot. They look like they could have supported a road bridge or some kind of pier. Any idea what they were for? I've been wondering forever!"

April 28, 2025

What’s This Building Under Construction in Toro Canyon?

"Anyone know what this cavernous building is way above the polo development? It’s on the ridge line just past the polo fields." 2

April 13, 2025

What’s the Story Behind the Seal of the City of Santa Barbara?

"It has two boats and a bay that doesn’t look a whole lot like Santa Barbara." 11