The Riviera Association of Santa Barbara, California

I'm a Member, Are You?

August 1, 2008

Community is often defined as a group of people with common interests living in a particular area. I'm proud to be an active member of the Riviera Association allowing me to contribute and enjoy the benefts of community right at home.

I purchased my home in Santa Barbara, on APS, in late 2006. Over the last year, I have grown to truly love Santa Barbara and especially the lifestyle in the Riviera. I was honored that the Riviera Association approached me to join the board in mid-2007. When I first joined, I appreciated the benefit of a group of citizens that carefully monitors my neighborhood. As I spent more time discovering the diverse areas that the Riviera Association penetrates, my appreciation only grew. I had no clue the Riviera Association works so closely with City organizations to protect our neighborhood during critical times like the Zaca Fire, or keeping us safe during serious inclement weather.

I began to realize after my first board meeting how much I take for granted. In one board meeting, we achieved the following:

Organized a campaign to prevent the utility company from placing a utility box above ground
Designed a plan to keep members informed of emergency issues via e-mail
Responded to member concerns regarding vehicles parked on APS
Setup a meeting with fire officials to review planning for adverse conditions
Coordinated for trimming and removal of hazardous trees on the upper Riviera
Discussed pros and cons of proposed development plans in the lower Riviera.

What's remarkable is not just the progress we make or what we accomplish. What's remarkable is that we do this with pride of ownership and a sense of personal/social obligation to maintain this beautiful environment and healthy peace of mind.

Although we have approximately 15 board members, it is clear that every member is an important part of the association. The members guide the priorities and keep the entire association informed. The association is a conduit of communication, action, and advocacy. The more households joining the association, the safer, cleaner, and stronger the entire association becomes. Be sure to ask your neighbors, I'm a member, are you?

-Jacques Habra

Riviera Archives

Riviera Association Bylaws August 2007

Riviera Association Advertising Policy

Board of Directors Issues & Correspondence

a) Cottage Hospital/St. Francis development