The Goleta City Council paved the way for a 140-room, extended-stay hotel across from the Santa Barbara Airport.

The council approved the Residence Inn by Marriott project on a 4-1 vote Nov. 18, with Councilwoman Jonny Wallis dissenting.

The project is located at 6300 Hollister Ave. The Chumash community has opposed the project because of its treatment of a prehistoric Chumash site. Some area hotels have objected as well because of increased competition. The Goleta Valley Chamber of Commerce has supported the project saying the $600,000 a year in occupancy tax is needed to help offset shortfall in other sales taxes.

Are you a subscriber? If not, sign up today and get four free issues of the Pacific Coast Business Times!