SANTA MARIA, Calif. - Santa Maria has known for over a year now that it would have a new mayor after these elections. Current Mayor Larry Lavagnino announced last October that he would be retiring after his current term.
And that opened the gates for four candidates who are fighting for the position: Mike Cordero, Dan Gebhart, Marty Mariscal, and Alice Patino. Two of them, Cordero and Patino, are current city council members for Santa Maria.
Each candidate has been involved in an election before, so the process isn't new to them. Central Coast News reached out to each one to see how they are coping with the pressure of the big day. We were able to speak with 3 of the 4 and got some mixed reactions.
Mike Cordero said this experience differs from his past experience running for city council, saying "this time, it's a little more tense. Running for the position of mayor is a bit different. It's very exciting."
Alice Patino says "I think all of us are a little anxious and we want it to come soon."
"I'm hoping that if I don't win, that whoever does win actually does something. You know, besides words," says Dan Gebhart.
One thing to note is that Alice Patino will continue to hold her seat as a council member if she is not elected mayor. Mike Cordero's term as council member ends this year. Marty Mariscal was unavailable for comment.
Central Coast news will be sure to keep you updated throughout the day on this race along with all the others.
