Three candidates for Santa Barbara County Fifth District supervisor debated budget priorities at a forum in Guadalupe, with layoffs looming. - Aguilera criticized $4 million in EV charging station spending while social workers face layoffs.
- Bantilan emphasized public safety as the top priority, warning against one-time fixes. - Valencia called for delaying jail expansion and investing in support services instead.
The candidates also discussed flood prevention and trail connectivity, with differing views on infrastructure projects.