San Benito County supervisor race draws majority of local campaign funds

The race for the District 5 seat on the San Benito County Board of Supervisors has become a primary focus of local campaign spending, accounting for $40,000 of the $54,000 total invested in local campaigns.

Candidates include former Supervisor Ignacio Velazquez, who has reported $16,169 in contributions including $15,000 in personal loans; Rodney Bianchi, who reported $14,399; and John Williams, who reported $9,446, including $5,450 in personal loans.

Bianchi’s campaign reported a contribution from Tony and Cathy Alameda that exceeded the $2,500 individual limit established by the Board of Supervisors in January. Chief Deputy Clerk-Recorder Ana De Castro Maquiz stated the office would request that Bianchi return the $500 excess. Bianchi indicated he was unaware of the limit and intended to return the funds.