A new smartphone application with local connections is encouraging users to transform Solvang into their very own “playground.”
Overview of the Solvang Passport App
Developed by Mayor David Brown, the Solvang Passport app showcases numerous local businesses throughout the city. This innovative app incorporates “stamps” in the form of QR codes that users can collect by visiting different locations.
Incentives for Users: Collecting Points and Rewards
The more stamps users gather through the app, the greater the points they accumulate, potentially leading to exciting rewards. These rewards may include exclusive discounts or offers at participating businesses, enhancing the local shopping experience.
Concerns Raised by Councilmember Elizabeth Orona
However, the app isn’t without its controversies. Solvang City Councilmember Elizabeth Orona has expressed concerns regarding the business model of the app. During a council meeting on March 9, she noted that featuring a business on the app requires a monthly fee of $250, which could lead to unequal promotion among local businesses.
Potential Conflicts of Interest
“The app creates incentives for some businesses while potentially excluding others,” Orona articulated. “Can our businesses be assured that the mayor is acting in the public’s interest, or is he prioritizing those who are part of his model?” The concern revolves around whether the mayor’s actions might create confusion among the local business community.
City Attorney’s Intervention
At this point, Solvang City Attorney Chelsea O’Sullivan interjected, urging Orona to provide direction for the staff about the issue. She reiterated that the council could not address Orona’s proposal that evening but suggested it could be discussed in a future meeting.
Council’s Decision on Further Actions
Following the discussion, Councilmember Louise Smith motioned for staff to explore the issue further. The motion passed with a 3-1 vote, while Mayor Brown recused himself from voting, acknowledging the complexity of the situation.
Mayor Brown’s Stance on the App
In defense of the app, Mayor Brown argued that it is merely a “tourist game” and emphasized that transparency has been maintained throughout the app’s development. He also asserted that he had sought appropriate counsel regarding the app’s pricing and subscription model, claiming that there were no conflicts of interest involved.
This article appears in the March 12, 2026 – March 19, 2026 issue.
Related
Solvang’s New Smartphone App: A Playground for Local Businesses
A recently launched smartphone app, proudly developed by local officials, aims to turn Solvang into a personal “playground” for residents and visitors alike. This innovative tool encourages users to explore the city while supporting local economies.
Introducing Solvang Passport
Named Solvang Passport, the app features a wide array of local businesses, offering incentives for users to engage and explore. At each business, users can find QR codes that act as digital stamps, which can be scanned to collect points.
Points and Rewards System
As users accumulate stamps by visiting different locations, they collect points that can be redeemed for various rewards, such as discounts or special deals at participating businesses. This gamified experience is designed to enhance local tourism and drive sales for Solvang’s merchants.
Concerns from Council Members
Not everyone is on board with the app’s business model. A local council member raised concerns regarding the app’s potential to favor certain businesses while excluding others. The requirement for businesses to pay a monthly fee to be featured on the app has sparked discussions about fairness and transparency in local governance.
Implications for Local Businesses
The differentiation in the treatment of businesses has raised questions about whether it creates confusion among residents. Critics argue that it may foster a divide between businesses, with some receiving promotional benefits at the cost of others. This model poses a dilemma for local entrepreneurs who wonder about the app’s impact on their visibility and success.
Call for Transparency and Fairness
During a recent city council meeting, a member called for further review of the app’s implications, stressing the need for equitable treatment of all businesses. This highlights a growing concern among local officials about the need for transparency and accountability in initiatives led by city leaders.
Next Steps for the Council
The council decided to explore further action to ensure fairness amongst local businesses. They discussed the possibility of drafting an official directive to address potential conflicts of interest arising from the app. As council members continue to deliberate, the community watches closely to see how these discussions unfold.
As Solvang embraces this new digital venture, the balance between promoting local businesses and ensuring a level playing field will be essential for fostering unity and growth within the community.
