City of Goleta residents care about their community as was evidenced by the great turnout this past Saturday, July 15, 2023, for the City’s second neighborhood Coffee and Community (Café y Comunidad) event. More than 60 people gathered at the Goleta Valley Library for coffee and conversation. Check out our video slideshow to see photos from the memorable morning.

This bilingual event with live Spanish interpretation was a great opportunity for neighbors in the 1st District and beyond to meet each other and share their thoughts, ideas and concerns with Mayor Paula Perotte, 1st District City Councilmember Luz Reyes-Martín and a cross-section of Goleta City staff.

Attendees enjoyed coffee, champurrado (chocolate flavored drink) and fresh pan dulce (breakfast pastries) thanks to Cristino’s Bakery. Councilmember Reyes-Martín welcomed everyone and addressed some topics she knew would be of interest to residents in District 1, such as the City’s first inclusive playground to be installed at Stow Grove Park, the condition of Cathedral Oaks Road, the City’s new Plastic Reduction Ordinance and the upcoming Beautify Goleta event this Saturday, July 22.

Mayor Perotte also welcomed attendees and encouraged them to stay connected with the City and to feel free to reach out any time. City staff from various departments answered questions from the public on a wide range of topics. In addition to the group Q&A time, community members also had time to ask their questions directly to the Mayor, Councilmember Reyes-Martín and attending staff.

It was a great way to spend a Saturday morning. Thanks to everyone who participated!

The City held the first Coffee and Community (Café y Comunidad) on January 21 in Old Town with Mayor Perotte and District 2 Councilmember James Kyriaco. The City plans to hold the next one in October. Stay tuned for details. For questions, call or email the City’s Spanish Engagement Specialist Marcos Martinez at (805) 562-5500 or [email protected].