Santa Barbara candidates address housing and arts issues

As elections approach in Santa Barbara, candidates are addressing critical municipal issues including the housing shortage and the support of local arts.

In the race for City Council District 5, candidates Cevin Cathell, James Zurlinden, and Ian Baucke have identified city policy as a factor in the local housing shortage. Discussion points include the need for increased housing inventory to match population growth and the impact of rent stabilization ordinances. Cathell expressed concern that restrictive regulations might drive housing providers out of the rental market, while Zurlinden emphasized the rights of property owners.

Additionally, the Santa Barbara Arts Collaborative (SBAC) will host a candidates' forum on October 7. The event will feature mayoral and City Council candidates from Districts 4, 5, and 6 to discuss funding and the protection of arts programs within city decision-making.