Surveillance Video Ignites Gentrification Debate

Surveillance video from El Bajio Taqueria on Milpas Street in Santa Barbara shows demonstrators entering the business earlier this month.

Poder is a civil rights group opposed to a proposed Eastside Business Improvement District. Members chose not to comment about the silent video, recenlty posted on YouTube, until their own video is released.

But critics of the demonstration said demonstrators crossed the line by entering the business and intimidating customers. Witnesses said the demonstrators ended up dining at a chain restaurant down the street.

Members of the Milpas Community Association dined at El Bajio days later to show the owner, Santo Guzman, their support.

Guzman said he supports the improvement plan and welcomes others to join him.

But critics of the Eastside Business Improvement Distict say it will lead to gentrification,increased rents and evictions for other Latino-run businesses.

Critics from the Association United for a Better Community said the district would create assessments to cover costs.

They have posted signs opposing a petition needed to create an improvement district.

The area in question runs from hotels by the beach to the Santa Barbara Bowl.

Both sides will have a chance to come together at future Eastside community center meetings.