Cory Bantilan is looking to replace his boss as Fifth District Santa Barbara County Supervisor. He works as the chief of staff for Steve Lavagnino. The district covers Santa Maria, Guadalupe and the unincorporated community of Tanglewood.
In the latest episode of Santa Barbara Talks with Josh Molina, Bantilan talks about why he is running for the seat, how he is different from Lavagnino and his views on several issues facing the district.
Bantilan discusses his views on ICE, the Santa Barbara County budget, cannabis odor, the overcrowding at the North County Jail, oil and energy, housing, public safety and more.
Bantilan is running against Santa Maria City Councilmember Maribel Aguilera and Ricardo Valencia, Santa Maria-Bonita School District board member. Check back to Santa Barbara Talks for future episodes featuring the candidates.
Lavagnino is not seeking re-election. Click on the YouTube link below to watch the show.
Here are some highlights from the episode:
- Background: Bantilan discusses his experience in county government and his move to the district.
- Campaign strategy: Emphasizes door-to-door outreach, resource efficiency, and responsiveness to voters over fundraising.
- Public safety: Supports expanding North County jail and improving jail processes; opposes arbitrary releases.
- Immigration enforcement: Advocates for targeted enforcement of serious offenders and comprehensive immigration reform.
- Energy and environment: Promotes a balanced approach to North County energy jobs and safety; cautious about abrupt job eliminations.
- Cannabis program: Defends the county’s program, acknowledges odor control issues, and revenue shortfalls.
- Housing and affordability: Supports targeted improvements like permitting efficiency and smart planning.
- Personal life: Shares being a father and balancing campaign duties with family time.
- Overall stance: Presents himself as a moderate, pragmatic doer prioritizing public safety and responsive local government.
