As Your City Council Representative

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I WILL ensure that every tax dollar is accounted for and spent wisely.

• Taxpayers deserve to know where their money is going — and they deserve to trust that it’s being spent with discipline and purpose. I will make sure our city’s budget reflects the values and priorities of its residents, not the unchecked wish lists of politicians or special interests.

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I WILL conduct a comprehensive line-item review of the city budget.

• Too many expenditures are rubber-stamped year after year without meaningful oversight. I will lead a top-to-bottom review of all city departments to identify inefficiencies, eliminate redundancies, and root out wasteful or outdated spending practices.

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I WILL cut unnecessary spending and redirect funds to essential services.

• Our city must prioritize what matters most: public safety, infrastructure maintenance, clean parks, and core municipal services. I will oppose bloated projects and so-called “pilot programs” that offer no clear public benefit and instead focus resources where they’re truly needed.

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I WILL protect voter-approved funding and honor its intended use.

• When voters support a bond or a tax for a specific purpose — whether it’s road repair, public safety, or environmental protection — that money should be used exactly as promised. I will hold city staff and elected officials accountable for respecting the will of the people.

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I WILL bring financial transparency back to City Hall.

• Santa Barbara residents have a right to understand the budget without needing a law degree. I will push for clear, accessible financial reporting and require regular public updates on how money is spent. I’ll fight for open hearings and real public input before major financial decisions are made.

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I WILL restore public trust through responsible leadership.

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"Our city cannot afford to drift from one deficit to another while essential services suffer.

I will bring discipline, clarity, and courage to the budget process because good stewardship of

your money is not optional, it’s my obligation". ~ Nick Sebastian

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