Not sure how to vote? Read what SLO County locals think of the candidates | Opinion
Editor’s note: We will regularly update this page with new election letters. If you want to share your thoughts on the candidates, write us at letters@thetribunenews.com by May 28. Letters should be no longer than 200 words.
Dantona is the only choice
I’ve lived in Los Osos since 1980. For 34 years, I worked with the Board of Supervisors as the District s park commissioner. I think there’s only one choice for D2 Supervisor: Jim Dantona. His values, experience and knowledge demonstrate he will be an outstanding county supervisor. He understands the uniqueness of our area, has a long history of working in and with local government, he listens and asks good questions and is eager to work with all interests to create good solutions. He has the knowledge to get things done for us.
Woody’s core values are not clear. Until recently he was a Republican — he’s stated he doesn’t believe in man-made climate change, that he’d be willing to have local law enforcement cooperate with ICE and he’s supported allowing teachers to carry guns into the classroom.
Woody was quoted in the Trib, “…I need people to point out where I’m missing pieces to the puzzle.” Jim knows the issues and has the background and ability to be the leader we need right now. Woody seems to be missing what D2 voters care about. Vote Dantona. Pandora Nash-Karner
Los Osos
Verdin clarifies position on Prop 13
Supervisor Jimmy Paulding’s record on Proposition 13 protections is a fair and relevant subject for public scrutiny as voters decide who will represent District 4 come June 2.
Supervisor Paulding voted to weaken the county’s legislative language supporting Proposition 13 protections at the same time statewide efforts were actively advancing to reduce the traditional two-thirds threshold for certain local taxes and bonds. This is important because legislative platforms are not symbolic. They indicate priorities, governing philosophy and what elected officials will advocate for on behalf of taxpayers.
SLO County, like many counties in California, adopts a legislative platform and hires a lobbying firm funded by taxpayers to advocate for that platform. Those legislative positions represent board actions and are part of an incumbent’s voting record.
For The Tribune to dismiss that scrutiny as “nonsense” incorrectly minimizes the larger question before voters: Should a county supervisor vote to weaken legislative language supporting Proposition 13 protections, as the incumbent did in September 2023? Supervisor Paulding did exactly that, even denying that the two-thirds voting requirement is an essential part of Proposition 13. With historically high costs of living, working families should know where each candidate stands on this issue.
Adam Verdin
District 4 candidate
What about Tom Steyer?
In its May 10 endorsement of Katie Porter for governor in California’s primary election, I was disappointed by The Tribune’s brusque dismissal of environmental advocate and philanthropist Tom Steyer. McClatchy Media’s California editorial rejected him only for being a billionaire, ignoring Steyer’s 14-year record serving Democratic and progressive causes.
Addressing California’s housing crisis, Steyer (and his wife) co-founded Beneficial State Bank, a Community Development Financial Institution. For almost two decades it has financed over 17,000 affordable housing units. Further, regarding California’s chronic housing shortage, Steyer’s website comprehensively lists 14 policies, proposing to build a million homes in four years.
Since 2010, Steyer has initiated numerous California ballot measures, including Proposition 39, which closed a loophole that allowed some corporations to pay their taxes out of state. Passed with 61% of the vote, this measure annually brings one billion dollars to California, funding clean energy projects and the general fund.
Steyer is best known for his support of environmental causes. This stems from his recognition that climate change is the single greatest threat to human flourishing for future generations. Steyer wants California at the forefront of technological and policy solutions to reverse the increasingly severe weather disasters caused by our reliance on fossil fuels.
With a nod to Katie Porter, currently polling under 10%, I recommend she throw her support to fellow-progressive Steyer. In response, Gov. Steyer appoints Porter to a major cabinet post that plays to her strengths and experience.
Gordon L. Fuglie
Atascadero
Republican support for Paulding
The SLO County Board of Supervisors race has become increasingly partisan. As a Republican, I urge voters to set aside political affiliations and consider the factors that truly matter. Jimmy is exceptionally experienced and well-prepared for this role. With a Cal Poly degree in City and Regional Planning, as well as a law degree, he has effectively honed his leadership expertise serving on the Arroyo Grande City Council, the SLO County Board of Supervisors and several commissions dedicated to our local quality of life. Jimmy gets things done. He was instrumental in achieving several county milestones:
- Adding a sheriff’s substation and increasing CAL FIRE staffing in Nipomo.
- Repealing county gerrymandering.
- Consolidating countywide waste management.
- Offering residents a PG&E alternative through Central Coast Community Energy.
- Balancing the SLO County budget.
Furthermore, he is taking a responsible path toward solving our housing crisis. Rather than being influenced by developers, he works thoughtfully with them on behalf of the residents. I encourage you to vote for Jimmy, regardless of your political party, to ensure we have capable and results-oriented leadership in SLO County.
Arthur F. Herbon
Nipomo
Verdin knows what it takes to run a business
As a small business owner, I know how important it is to have local leaders who understand the challenges of running a business in San Luis Obispo County. That’s why I’m supporting Adam Verdin for county supervisor.
Adam doesn’t just talk about supporting small businesses, he lives it every day. As a co-owner of Old Juan’s Cantina alongside his sister, Eva, he understands the rising costs, regulations, staffing challenges and day-to-day realities local business owners face. He knows what it takes to keep a family business running and to create jobs in our community.
I’ve also seen Adam’s commitment to South County firsthand. He shows up, listens to people and genuinely cares about making our communities stronger. Whether it’s supporting local restaurants, improving infrastructure or creating opportunities for the next generation, Adam approaches issues with practical, common-sense leadership.
We need someone at the county level who understands both business and community. Adam Verdin is that person, and I’m proud to support him for supervisor. Marios Pouyioukkas
Oceano
Paulding the ‘clear winner’
As a senior registered as no party preference, I study the issues and listen carefully to debates and radio interviews.. I vote for the candidate, not the political party.
Mr. Paulding is the clear winner. He was enthusiastic and well-prepared at the League of Women Voter debate forum. Mr. Verdin was bored and only could give attack or very simple answers, that is when he remembered the question. It was concerning that he didn’ t take notes and had to ask many times for a repeat of the question.
Mr. Verdin showed a lack of new ideas and dragged out the old scare tactic of Proposition 13. Does he feel the voters today will continue to fall for this? It is a California Constitutional amendment!
Living in Nipomo, I am grateful that the sheriff’s substation will finally be built after many years of talk. Roads are getting better. Mr. Paulding is endorsed by the SLO County Firefighters Association. This is leadership, this is doing his job for our community.
Glenn Eineman
Nipomo
Trib got it wrong
I have lived in South County for many years and have had the honor of serving as an elected official, fire chief and current county planning commissioner for District 3. Over the past 30 years, I’ve worked with leaders across the political spectrum. Public safety, emergency preparedness and responsible planning should rise above party politics. That’s why I believe The Tribune was wrong to endorse Jimmy Paulding over Adam Verdin for District 4 supervisor.
Ironically, the editorial acknowledged many of Adam’s strengths, describing him as approachable, thoughtful and committed to helping working families. It also recognized that San Luis Obispo County cannot continue treating housing developers as villains if we want future generations to afford living here.
Adam understands balance. He supports workforce housing while recognizing the importance of infrastructure, water reliability and public safety. He has spent years serving the community through nonprofits, business leadership and civic engagement.
What stands out most is Adam’s willingness to listen and learn. In a small county, collaboration matters. We need leaders who unite people rather than divide them into political camps. Adam reminds me of leaders like Katcho Achadjian, Paul Teixeira, and Frank Mecham — moderates who put the county first.
This election should be about choosing the person best prepared to lead. I believe that person is Adam Verdin.
Steve Lieberman
Grover Beach
Why I support Cano
I have had the privilege of working closely with Elaina Cano during her time as SLO County Clerk-Recorder, and I have seen firsthand the professionalism, integrity and dedication she brings to this office every day.
The work of the Clerk-Recorder’s Office is complex and often behind the scenes, but it is essential to the public’s trust in local government.
Under Elaina’s experienced leadership, the office has modernized critical systems, strengthened election security, expanded public outreach and improved access to services across the county.
From implementing new ballot verification technology to transitioning important records to secure cloud-based systems, her focus has always been on accuracy, transparency and serving every resident.
I have also watched Elaina prioritize civic engagement in meaningful ways. She helped launch student voter registration initiatives, a student ambassador program and outreach efforts that connected with first-time voters, veterans and underserved communities.
Most importantly, Elaina leads with steadiness and sound judgment. She approaches every election and every public interaction with care, professionalism and deep respect for the responsibility entrusted to this office. San Luis Obispo County has benefited greatly from her leadership, and I am proud to support her continued service as county clerk-recorder.
Erin Clausen
San Luis Obispo
Verdin’s ‘stale’ campaign
Adam Verdin’s stale campaign promises to lower taxes while improving infrastructure underscore the fact that he does not have the skill set needed to manage the complexities of county government.
Jimmy Paulding has a degree in city and regional planning as well as a law practice. He was a member of the Arroyo Grande City Council and continues to serve on several advisory boards. As a member of the SLO County Board of Supervisors, Paulding always brings insight and clarity to the discussion of complex issues. Paulding’s voting record shows that he is not an extremist but a thoughtful member of the board who represents his district with integrity.
Adam Verdin says he wants to prioritize public safety, but Jimmy Paulding has already demonstrated a commitment to public safety and the ability to deliver for the residents of District 4. Supervisor Paulding sponsored a much-needed sheriff substation in Nipomo. He also helped to increase fire crew staffing in Nipomo and to fully fund the Oceano fire service.
This is no time to elect an amateur. Reelect Jimmy Paulding to the San Luis Obispo County Board of Supervisors.
Molly Machin
Nipomo
My vote for District 2
On June 2, the coastal communities have a chance to choose a new county supervisor to represent Los Osos, Harmony, Cayucos, Cambria and unincorporated areas in District 2. Bruce Gibson has held the position for 20 years. Gibson hand-picked his replacement, Jim Dantona, and went so far as to make him his current legislative assistant so he can learn his agenda.
That agenda has included some annoying stances that include denial of the water crisis in Los Osos and a push for new development here, support for offshore wind power and infrastructure, agreement to keep the Diablo Canyon nuclear plant in business beyond its safe operating life and other lack-luster responses to multiple community needs.
Jim Dantona is a close friend and Cayucos neighbor to Bruce Gibson and appears to be able to follow his legacy and seems prepared to continue in his style. Michael Erin Woody brings a fresh energy and understanding of our challenges because of his generational involvement along our coastline. He left the Republican Party six years ago and thinks in a nonpartisan way, looking at issues and solutions in a practical way.
Unlike the rumors being circulated that he’s a Republican in disguise and has a secret agenda to turn the board back to a 3-2 vote, Woody speaks clearly about advocating for our coastal region and its protection. He is experienced and has my vote. Please listen to some of the debates, Google District 2 debates and decide who will best represent our communities into the future!
Linde Owen
Los Osos
I’m with Jimmy
In an era when public trust in government often feels like a lost cause, it’s easy to become cynical. But every now and then you come across a leader who doesn’t just talk about values — they live them. For the last three years, I’ve watched Jimmy Paulding do exactly that.
He’s not chasing headlines. He shows up to clean-up events, walks the neighborhoods, and really listens.
His commitment to older adults led to the county’s first-ever Master Plan on Aging — guiding long-term improvements in healthcare access, senior infrastructure and aging-in-place supports countywide. He didn’t do it for the applause. He did it because people needed it.
Seven years on the SLO County Air Pollution Control District, advocating for cleaner air on the Nipomo Mesa when others had given up — PM10 pollution is now down nearly 40% on high-wind days.
He made behavioral health a county priority because people deserved better. He tackled homelessness with systems — housing, outreach, mental health services — and unsheltered homelessness is down 31%.
Integrity isn’t loud. It shows up, year after year, in the decisions a leader makes when no one is watching.
We need more leaders like Jimmy Paulding. Vote for him June 2.
Terry Parry
Arroyo Grande
Who deserves credit for Cecchetti Bridge?
Adam Verdin is trying to take credit for opening Cecchetti Road when those of us who have been denied safe access for the past several years have been thwarted by his efforts and the efforts of his supporters, including members of the Board of Supervisors who have endorsed his candidacy after voting against efforts of Jimmy Paulding.
Jimmy Paulding is the one responsible for tireless efforts to provide safe access for our neighborhood and the Branch Elementary School.
We have followed various proposals, tentative agreements and reneging on agreements, which appear to have been orchestrated to delay replacement of the spillway with a bridge. We know who has been against the bridge, and we know who has fought for it.
It is not Mr. Verdin and his developer friends — never has been.
If Jimmy Paulding is not reelected, we will not have a permanent bridge. Jimmy Paulding has the knowledge, training and experience needed to deal with issues like the Cecchetti Road bridge.
Jimmy Paulding will continue to do what is right for the people of this District 4 and the county of San Luis Obispo.
Stephen Dorsi
Arroyo Grande