Northwest Santa Maria residents are gearing up for a pivotal City Council race as the District 1 seat becomes permanently filled. The seat opened earlier this year when former Councilman Carlos Escobedo resigned, prompting the council to appoint a temporary replacement in April.
Forum Gives Voters a First Look
A candidate forum is scheduled for Thursday, September 26, at 7 p.m. in Boyd Concert Hall on the campus of Allan Hancock College. The event, organized by the Santa Maria Valley Chamber of Commerce and the League of Women Voters, offers a chance for the community to hear directly from the three individuals who have qualified for the ballot.
Who Is Running?
Richard Batalla, the youth development director for the Santa Maria Valley YMCA, was appointed to the temporary seat in April. Batalla says his experience working with local youth gives him insight into the district’s needs, and he is seeking a full term to continue that work.
Celest Mendoza is running as a community candidate. Mendoza emphasizes fresh guidance for the district, focusing on improving public safety, expanding youth programs, and ensuring responsible oversight of low‑cost housing projects.
Gary Janek Michaels is an independent candidate who stresses a non‑partisan approach to local issues. Michaels plans to concentrate on practical solutions for the district’s working‑class neighborhoods, including better infrastructure and community‑center resources.
Key Issues for District 1
The district covers a varied, working‑class section of Santa Maria, and voters are hearing strong messages around three core concerns:
- Community security – Candidates discussed strategies to enhance police‑community relations and improve neighborhood safety.
- Youth activities – All three highlighted the need for more recreational spaces and programs for children and teens.
- Low‑cost housing oversight – With several affordable‑housing projects in the area, candidates promised transparent management and accountability.
These issues reflect the everyday priorities of families and faith‑centered residents who call Northwest Santa Maria home.
Election Timeline
Ballots for the November 2026 municipal election will be mailed out next week, giving voters ample time to review the candidates before heading to the polls. The District 1 council member will serve the remainder of the term, which ends in November 2028.
For more information on the forum, including a schedule and candidate bios, visit the Santa Maria Valley Chamber’s website or contact the League of Women Voters.
Original reporting: KEYT (Ventura/Santa Barbara) — read the source article.
