New Zip Code Proposal

Division 3 Zip Code Proposal

Lompoc, CA, a city in Santa Barbara County, faces several challenges that have prompted the surrounding communities action. Key issues include the proposed methadone clinic, Measure M, Lompoc Hospital's likely downgrade to a clinic and coming $21 Million shortfall combined with its $5 million fraud settlement with Medi-Cal, repeated proposals for low-income housing in Vandenberg Village and Mission Hills, a high sales tax rate coupled with perceived lack of representation, and concerns about resource diversion. These factors drive local efforts to address community needs and advocate for fair representation.

This has prompted a proposal submitted to the Santa Clara Postmaster in June 2025, of using the existing Santa Ynez River Water Conservation District Divisions map to define new zip code boundaries, in particular defining a new zip code for the Division 3 residents. Division 3's western point begins at Ocean Park betweek New Beach Road and Ocean Park Road, with its eastern border ending at Vineyard View Lane. Its Southern boundary follows the Santa Ynez river, and then Purisma Rd onto the 246 terminating at Vineyard View Lane.

Efforts to expand low-income housing by Lompoc, particularly in Vandenberg Village and Mission Hills have faced frequent opposition due to concerns about resource allocation and neighborhood impacts. The proposal to destroy La Mesa Elentary and replace it with 110 LUSD managed low income units is particularly out-of-touch given the schools rich history in the community. These tensions highlight the challenge of balancing Lompoc's housing needs with the surrounding communities concerns, as affordable housing in Lompoc remains essential for supporting it's vulnerable populations, but does not represent the economy or design of the surrounding communities. Lompoc's inability to convince Santa Barbara County to allow for it's expansion has meant that Lompoc's city council has begun to push it's projects into its unassuming neighbours.

In July of 2025 we made a California Public Records Act (CPRA) to the Lompoc Unified School District requesting further details

Lompoc residents face a combined sales tax rate of 8.75%, comprising a 6.0% state tax, 1.0% county tax, and 1.5% special tax, with no additional city tax (Avalara). These funds support city and county services, including infrastructure and public safety. However, some residents feel they experience “taxation without representation,” as Lompoc’s specific needs may not be adequately addressed in county-level decisions. Lompoc is part of the Third Supervisorial District, represented by Supervisor Joan Hartmann, who serves a diverse region including Lompoc, Santa Ynez Valley, and eastern Goleta Valley (Santa Barbara County). Despite this representation, the perception persists that Lompoc lacks sufficient influence in county discussions, particularly regarding resource allocation.