Aceves vs. Reyes-Martin for Goleta City Council’s newly formed First District
GOLETA, Calif. - "I got elected to do a job and I've done it for 16 years. I've got the experience. I've got the training. I've got the background," said Roger Aceves.
"I really feel like I bring a fresh perspective and a lot of experience to the role of a city council member," said Luz Reyes-Martin."
Challenger Luz Reyes-Martin and her incumbent opponent, Roger Aceves, both consider the City of Goleta's first-ever district elections "exciting."
"In the district where I have lived for 29 years, I know my neighbors, I know the concerns so now I can advocate, not citywide, but district wide," said Aceves.
"It's where my son goes to school. It's where we shop. It's where my parents are soon to be residents and I feel such a really strong connection," said Reyes-Martin.
Reyes-Martin cited her city experience in land-use planning and public administration as skills that set her apart. And, serving on the Goleta school board for eight years.
"So I already have a lot of knowledge of the City of Goleta but also more broadly, how a city should function," said Reyes-Martin. "How it should work, how it should be accountable to the residents it serves."
She believes collaboration is key.
"I believe in constituency service," said Aceves. "Actually, I call it "customer service."
Aceves said his strength lies in his experience with the Goleta City Council starting in 2006. And, prioritizing the needs of the city.
In his opinion, a ballot request for a one cent sales tax increase is not one of them.
"People are struggling, so why should they pay for the sales tax?"
Aceves ranks the new Amtrak station, the new fire station and, roadway repairs as critical.
Reyes-Martin cites drought, climate change and wildfire threat as top concerns.
Both candidates point to housing issues as key to the city's future growth.
"Goleta's not going to solve the housing problem on its own," said Reyes-Marin. "We have to work collaboratively with our neighbors, with the regional partners, with the state."
"If you can build a footprint where you can go up a little bit or out a little more or add more housing, that might be the way to do it," said Aceves. "We need to look at Old Town."
Each believes that they are the best candidate for the position.
"I love the work that the many councils I've been on have accomplished," said Aceves. "But now, it's exciting times."
"I feel like voters should have a choice and I have a lot to contribute to the city," said Reyes-Martin.
Click here to learn more about Roger Aceves.
Click here to learn more about Luz Reyes-Martin.
