The race for San Luis Obispo County District 4 Supervisor is reaching its final stages with Election Day just around the corner. Incumbent Jimmy Paulding, who currently chairs the Board, is facing off against Adam Verdin, a local businessman and community volunteer from Oceano.

Candidate Backgrounds

Paulding, hailing from Arroyo Grande, emphasizes his dedication to serving the community he grew up in, citing his experience on the city council and the Board of Supervisors. Verdin, on the other hand, highlights his fresh perspective as a first-time candidate and his commitment to problem-solving for the community.

Key Issues

Both candidates have been vocal about the pressing issues facing the county. Paulding focuses on managing growth, particularly in Nipomo, and ensuring that infrastructure keeps pace with development. He also champions a regional ocean desalination project to secure future water supplies and has prioritized public safety by securing funding for the Nipomo sheriff substation.

Verdin stresses the need for infrastructure accountability and transparency, criticizing the current spending on road maintenance as inadequate. He advocates for reopening the Oceano Fire Station and addressing unmanaged growth in Nipomo. Verdin also calls for a reassessment of how taxpayer money is allocated within the county.

Differences in Approach

Verdin distinguishes himself by focusing on tangible results and community service, while Paulding emphasizes integrity and independence from real estate developer influence. The candidates’ differing backgrounds and approaches to governance offer voters distinct choices.

District 4 encompasses Nipomo, Arroyo Grande, Oceano, and other parts of South San Luis Obispo County. Voters will decide the outcome during the Primary Election on June 2, 2026. If no candidate secures a majority, a runoff will occur in November.

Original reporting: KEYT (Ventura/Santa Barbara) — read the source article.