California towns Morgan Hill and Salinas gear up for local elections

In Morgan Hill, California, incumbent Mayor Mark Turner has filed to run for re‑election and faces challenger Kristopher Clayton, who positions himself as an outsider. City Council races see former fire captain Steven Hayes II filing for District B, incumbent Marilyn Librers seeking another term in District D, and various challengers for school‑board trustee seats across the Morgan Hill Unified School District.

Meanwhile, Salinas voters will select council members in four districts and a new mayor. Business‑owner and mayoral candidate Chris Barrera supports recently approved renters‑protection measures and proposes a youth committee, school visits, and STEM programs to address the city’s large youth population. He also calls for increased low‑income housing and faster permitting for businesses.