Santa Barbara Eastside Plan to Help Boost Community

The Santa Barbara City Council is reviewing a plan for an Eastside Business Improvement District.

The Milpas Community Association is proposing the plan, which includes fees from businesses with specific uses to promote and improve the area.

The fees would range from $215. to $745. depending on the type of business.

The funds would go into a general account and be used for beautification, safety, government relations, promotions and special events.

For the last several year, business owners have developed a stronger voice to deal with quality of life issues pertaining to crime, and homelessness. They have also called for more police patrol, street lighting, and community clean up days.

The city council hearing on this issue takes place at 2 p.m. Tuesday.