Santa Barbara residents gathered at the Alhecama Theatre on Canon Perdido Street for the city’s final mayoral forum before the November 3 election. The packed house reflected a community eager to hear directly from the three candidates seeking the mayor’s office.
Candidates on the stage
City Councilmember Eric Friedman opened the discussion by emphasizing his record of fiscal responsibility on the council and his commitment to preserving Santa Barbara’s unique character while addressing the housing shortage. He argued that responsible development, paired with strong neighborhood input, can expand affordable options without sacrificing the city’s charm.
Mayor Pro Tem Kristen Sneddon highlighted her experience leading the council’s public‑safety and infrastructure initiatives. She stressed the importance of transparent governance and pledged to keep the mayor’s office accessible to every resident, especially families seeking safe, affordable homes.
Former school‑board member Wendy Sims‑Moten brought an education‑focused perspective, noting how stable housing directly impacts student success. She advocated for policies that protect renters while encouraging new construction that serves both families and the local workforce.
Key issues raised by voters
Audience members asked about the city’s first Rent Stabilization Ordinance, which passed the council by a narrow 4‑3 vote. All three candidates agreed that listening to residents is essential, but each offered a different approach to implementation. Friedman called for a balanced framework that safeguards landlords’ ability to maintain properties. Sneddon urged a swift rollout with clear guidelines to prevent confusion. Sims‑Moten emphasized protections for tenants with children, linking housing stability to educational outcomes.
Other topics included the State Street Master Plan, affordable housing targets, and the broader role of the mayor. The candidates concurred that the mayor should act as a unifying figure, fostering collaboration between the council, businesses, and community groups.
Community involvement and next steps
High school students from Dos Pueblos High School streamed the forum on the Santa Barbara Independent’s YouTube channel, demonstrating the next generation’s investment in local governance. The forum will conclude at 7 p.m., after which the candidates will continue meeting residents at various neighborhood venues.
With the election just weeks away, Santa Barbara voters have a clear opportunity to evaluate each candidate’s vision for preserving the city’s heritage while addressing pressing housing challenges. The forum underscored a shared commitment among the hopefuls to keep the mayor’s office responsive to the concerns of families, faith‑based communities, and all citizens who call Santa Barbara home.
Original reporting: KEYT (Ventura/Santa Barbara) — read the source article.
