old-fashioned things like fresh air & sunshine are hard to beat”
- Laura Ingalls Wilder
Serving the Communities of Morro Bay and Cayucos
By NEIL FARRELL for Morro Bay Life
The June 2026 Primary Election is just around the corner and some key deadlines are on the immediate horizon, including the race for District 2 County Supervisor, the first time the seat will be wide open in a generation.
The County Clerk-Recorder’s Office, which includes the County Elections Office, on Jan. 8 said, “the SLO County Elections Office is already hard at work planning for the two elections scheduled for 2026 — the June 2 Statewide Direct Primary and the Nov. 3 General Election — and elections staff want potential candidates and
June Primary Election creeping close
2020 prior to taking office.
Under state law, anyone appointed to the seat had to run in the next available election (2022) and with the same boundaries that Hill had faced.
Ortiz-Legg won that race, and her election along with District 4’s Jimmy Paulding and Gibson in District 2, flipped the majority back to liberals, who promptly threw out the new 2021 district map and returned to the previous boundaries.
This meant that Morro Bay,
SLO, and Los Osos, who would have voted for county supervisor in 2024 (Districts 3 and 5) were again unable to vote.
So 2026, with the debacle of re-districting and re-re-districting now over, Morro Bay and Los Osos voters will again get back to picking their representative to the highest board in SLO County.
And with Gibson’s announcement last year that he would not seek another term, the race is wide open. So far two men have expressed intentions to run — Michael Woody and Jim Dantona. But the nomination period, which began Feb. 9, runs to March 11 so there may still be others who enter the race.
The normal filing period ends March 6, but was automatically extended when Gibson declined to run for an unprecedented sixth term.
Woody’s election website is woodyforsupe rvisor.com , and
MICHAEL WOODY
Sales tax hike spending plan approved
Countywide agency outlines local road repairs, corridor improvements, and mobility services as it seeks voter approval
By NEIL FARRELL for Morro Bay Life
Acountywide transportation agency has finalized and approved a spending plan in anticipation of asking voters in November to approve a sales tax hike.
The San Luis Obispo Council of Governments recently voted to approve the “San Luis Obispo County Transportation Expenditure Plan,” an general outline on how it would spend the $35 million a year it would get if a half-cent sales tax hike is approved by a two-thirds (66%) majority of voters at the November 2026 General Election.
With the SLOCOG Board’s final approval, the agency has set off on a quest to present and garner support from the seven incorporated city councils in the county.
The Morro Bay City Council is slated to formally hear and vote on the spending plan at its Tuesday, March 10, meeting (6 p.m. Veterans Memorial Building). The council already received the draft plan in early January, before SLOCOG voted on a final version. No action was taken and the council only had two members of the public that spoke on the matter, with one suggesting a change in who decides the local road priorities and the other opposed to the tax hike and calling on SLOCG to lobby Caltrans for a fairer distribution of gas tax monies.
Currently, gas taxes, which make up the overwhelming majority of roads monies, are mainly handed out on a per capita basis, so relatively less-populated counties like San Luis Obispo, are far down the proverbial totem pole when it comes to garnering such monies.
Under SLOCOG’s spending plan for the $35 million a year, 55% ($19.25 million) would be spent on local road repairs and improvements; 40% ($14M) on regional corridor roads; 4% ($1.4M) on mobility services; and 1% ($350,000) on administration.
This money would also help make SLO County better able to land state transportation grant monies because it could be leveraged as a local match for the state grants, which is becoming a greater necessity for limited tax monies handed out through competitive grant programs.
SLOCOG Executive Director Pete Rodgers said, “What we really want residents to understand is that with more funding and more control locally, we, as a region, can better compete for and win larger amounts of funding from state and federal grants, bringing our fair share back to SLO County.”
According to SLOCOG, 89% of the counties in California are already so-called “self-help counties” and have a local money source for transportation needs.
Under the plan, 55% of funds would go to local road repairs and improvements, covering road maintenance and rehabilitation, traffic safety upgrades, bridge and seismic retrofits, bicycle and pedestrian facilities, Safe Routes programs, streetscape enhancements, traffic signal upgrades, waterfront walkways, and optional local transit services like trolleys.
So Morro Bay’s share of the over $19 million a year could be added to the town’s regular pavement management project, allowing more surface streets in town to get paved. Morro Bay already has a half-cent local sales tax (Measure Q) that provides money for this as well as funding for the needs of the police and fire departments.
It should be noted that these monies, too, are to be allocated based on population, and Morro Bay is one of the smallest cities in SLO County.
As for the county’s share of these local monies, the county supervisors would decide how it would be spent and the money is to be divided equally among the five supervisorial districts, according to the spending plan.
But not all supervisorial districts are created equal; for example, District 2, encompassing the entire North Coast and a portion of San Luis Obispo, has four unincorporated towns — Los Osos, Cayucos, Cambria, and San Simeon, while District 5 has two — Templeton and Santa Margarita. County supervisors mainly concern themselves with these unincorporated towns for representation.
Under “Regional Corridor Improvements,” $14 million would fund congestion relief on high-
ways and major corridors, safety and interchange upgrades, regional bike and pedestrian connectors, interagency transit access, impact mitigation, and other projects aligned with the county’s Regional Transportation Plan.
And under “Mobility Services” the plan directs benefits from the $1.4 million towards seniors, veterans and the “mobility challenged.”
There are no listed examples of projects, and the spending plan simply says, “Funds shall support improvements to mobility programs that prioritize services for seniors, veterans, and mobility challenged.”
As for the $350,000 a year for “administration,” the plan says, “No more than 1% of annual revenues shall be allocated by the Authority for administration, reporting, auditing, and program oversight.”
The tax measure in November will also set up an organizational hierarchy for the spending with SLOCOG, which has 13 members — all five county supervisors plus a representative from each city and one from a special district — as the top transportation agency in the county, the so-called Authority Board.
Below that is a special oversight committee the tax measure will establish. “This Expenditure Plan provides for the creation of a Citizens’ Oversight Committee to ensure transparency and accountability.”
The oversight committee will have 12 members, one appointed by each of the seven cities and one each by the five Supervisors.
Just who will sit on this Citizen’s Oversight Committee isn’t spelled out, but the name infers it
would be a private citizen as opposed to an elected official. The SLOCOG Board is already made up of elected officials, so having another one sit on a “citizen’s” committee would be counterintuitive. And the SLOCOG Board gives itself the power of appointment on this committee.
“The Authority Board [SLOCOG] will review and appoint these members,” the spending plan said. “If any jurisdiction is unable to appoint a representative, THE AUTHORITY may fill the position through an open application process. Should a new City become incorporated, a representative from that jurisdiction shall be appointed by the City.”
The whole idea of a sales/transportation tax almost didn’t fly at all, as SLOCOG had to get a special law passed by the state Legislature to allow its half-cent tax hike to be put to a vote.
Our State Sen. John Laird authored Senate Bill 333, a law specific to SLOCOG that allows a higher-than-normal hike in the sales tax rate within SLO County.
According to the Legislative Counsel’s Summary of SB 333: “Existing law authorizes various local governmental entities, subject to certain limitations and approval requirements, to levy a transactions and use [sales] tax for general or specific purposes, in accordance with the procedures and requirements set forth in the Transactions and Use Tax Law, including a requirement that the combined rate of all taxes that may be imposed in accordance with that law in any county not exceed 2%.”
The Legislative Council’s summary continues, “This bill would authorize the San Luis Obispo Council of Governments, by an ordinance adopted by the council, to levy a tax pursuant to the Transactions and Use Tax Law at a rate not to exceed 1%, for general and special purposes, subject to voter approval on or after January 1, 2026, and before January 1, 2032. The bill would authorize the board to exceed the 2% limit described above to impose the retail transactions and use tax.”
Several cities in SLO County, including Morro Bay, already have local sales taxes approved by voters. In Morro Bay it totals 1.5% (Measures Q and E-20) and the overall sales tax here is 8.75% (7.25% goes to the State).
So SLOCOG wouldn’t have been able to apply its tax hike of 0.5% in those areas, but SB 333 cleared the way for the voters to decide the matter and for it to be collected throughout the county and in turn the whole county benefit from it.
Sen. Laird said, “For years, San Luis Obispo County has worked to maintain a growing transportation system with dwindling resources, all while state tax limits made it harder for local communities to help themselves. SB 333 changes that by giving residents the chance to decide their own future.
“It allows SLOCOG to go directly to voters with a proposal to fix local roads, improve safety on corridors like Highways 46 and 227, and keep our communities connected.”
If Morro Bay Life readers want to check out SLOCOG’s Expenditure Plan for what will officially be called, “The Local Roads First SelfHelp Initiative” on the November ballots, visit localroadsfirst.com
Map shows how the San Luis Obispo Council of Governments divides up SLO County with regards to transportation funding. Map courtesy SLOCOG
MORRO BAY
DA settles fishing violation case with Morro Bay charter boat operator
San Luis Obispo County District Attorney Dan Dow announced a civil settlement with Black Pearl Sportfishing LLC and operator Brian Walker, owners of the Morro Bay-based charter boat “The Black Pearl,” over violations of state fishing laws.
Under the agreement, approved Jan. 26 by Craig Van Rooyen in San Luis Obispo County Superior Court, the company will pay $10,600 in civil penalties and $2,000 to the county Fish and Game Fund. The settlement also requires the business to comply with daily fish catch limits and accurately report the specific species of rockfish caught by customers.
The case stems from a July 12, 2025 patrol by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife near Piedras Blancas, where officers located the vessel fishing in a seasonally restricted area in foggy conditions. An audit later found the boat’s electronic logs did not accurately record the species of rockfish caught.
After being contacted by the District Attorney’s Office, the company replaced its onboard computer system and retrained crew members to ensure compliance.
“Civil enforcement actions like this are essential to protect our precious marine resources and to make sure that everyone who does business on our coast plays by the same rules,” Dow said. “By holding violators accountable, we safeguard the long-term sustainability of our coastal waters and ensure a fair marketplace for the many law-abiding commercial fishermen who depend on them.”
To report suspected violations of our environmental laws, call your local police department or, if within the unincorporated areas of the county, the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Department Patrol Headquarters at (805) 781-4550. You may also find assistance at San Luis Obispo County Environmental Health Services.
Soft pastel workshop set for March 18–20 in Morro Bay
An introductory workshop, “An Introduction to Soft Pastels & the Art of Pastel Painting,” will be held March 18–20 from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Art Center Morro Bay.
Taught by pastel artist Greg Trombly, the three-day class will focus on capturing light and shadow in a variety of settings, including ocean, forest and floral scenes. Daily sessions begin with a demonstration, followed by individualized instruction in a relaxed, supportive environment.
Though designed as an introductory course, the workshop welcomes participants of all experience levels.
Cost is $175 for nonmembers and $157.50 for members using the discount code “MEMBER” at checkout.
Coastal News Briefs
Registration is available at artcentermorrobay. org/workshops
Pastel Society, Art Center to host back-to-back Dawn Emerson workshops in April
The Pastel Society of the West Coast, in conjunction with the Art Center Morro Bay, will offer two three-day pastel workshops April 6–11, scheduled to allow participants to attend the Out of Bounds awards reception at the Art Center on April 12.
Both workshops will be led by noted pastel artist Dawn Emerson and run from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Each session is $475.
“Pastel Innovations,” set for April 6–8, explores experimental approaches to pastel by combining PanPastels with inks, oils, crayons and other media. The workshop draws inspiration from Emerson’s 2017 book Pastel Innovations while introducing new techniques and creative processes.
“Pastel Innovations Plus,” April 9–11, is designed for artists who have previously taken a Pastel Innovations course. The advanced session emphasizes refining subject matter for stronger expressive impact, encouraging participants to challenge traditional expectations of pastel through mixed media exploration and daily design exercises.
More information and registration are available at pswc.ws
SAN LUIS OBISPO COUNTY
Passenger killed in multi-vehicle crash on El Camino
Real
A passenger was killed, and two drivers were injured following a multi-vehicle collision nearly two weeks ago in the 9000 block of El Camino Real, according to the Atascadero Police Department.
On Friday, Feb. 13, at approximately 3 p.m., police, along with Atascadero Fire and Emergency Services and the Atascadero Public Works Department, responded to reports of a crash involving injuries and a trapped occupant.
Upon arrival, emergency crews located a sedan overturned on its roof, blocking the western sidewalk, and a pickup truck positioned up an embankment. The driver of the sedan was extricated and transported to a local hospital with major injuries. The pickup driver was also transported with moderate injuries. A passenger in the sedan was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The department’s Major Accident Investigation Team conducted a comprehensive investigation. Southbound lanes of El Camino Real were closed for several hours and reopened at approximately 10:23 p.m.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation. It is not yet known whether alcohol or drugs were factors. Anyone with information is asked to call police at (805) 461-5051.
Suspect arrested in Nipomo grocery store theft
The San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office has arrested a suspect in connection with a theft at the Vons grocery store in Nipomo earlier this month, crediting the public’s assistance for helping solve the case.
On Feb. 2, deputies responded to a report that a suspect had stolen approximately $4,000 worth of alcohol over the course of about an hour. The suspect reportedly removed bottles from their boxes and concealed them under clothing and in a backpack, returning to the store multiple times during the theft.
Investigators identified 23-year-old Georgian Lovesmith, who is on parole out of San Diego, as the suspect. Sheriff’s detectives made a traffic stop on Highway 101 on Feb. 12 and took Lovesmith into custody. He was booked on charges of burglary, grand theft, possession of stolen property, and a parole hold. More than $10,000 worth of stolen items were recovered during the investigation.
The Sheriff’s Office thanked the community for providing tips that helped identify and apprehend the suspect, highlighting the important role of public cooperation in solving local crimes.
Diablo Canyon engagement panel seeks community applicants
The Diablo Canyon Decommissioning Engagement Panel and Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) are encouraging community members to apply for open seats on the panel, which provides input on future decommissioning plans for Diablo Canyon Power Plant.
While PG&E is pursuing steps to continue operating Diablo Canyon through 2030, as directed by the state, the utility says it remains committed to community involvement in the plant’s eventual decommissioning and potential future land uses. Applications for several panel positions are now being accepted, with the 30-day application period closing March 22.
The local, non-regulatory stakeholder group has been advising PG&E on decommissioning planning activities since 2018. Current panel members not seeking reappointment, along with one representative each from PG&E and the California Public Utilities Commission, will select new members. Candidates should broadly reflect the diverse stakeholder viewpoints in communities near the plant.
Panel meetings are held throughout the year and are open to the public. In addition to learning about technical aspects of decommissioning, members provide feedback on potential future uses of surrounding lands and possible repurposing of facilities.
Elected officials, current PG&E employees and their immediate family members are not eligible for community membership. More information and application details are available at pge.com/engagement panel
Golden State Goods owner partners with Fieldwork to expand downtown arts space
Amy Beams, owner of Golden State Goods, has joined forces with artists Arthur Mount and Allie Mount of Fieldwork to expand a community arts space in downtown Atascadero. Fieldwork, founded by Arthur and Allie Mount, has built a following through drawing groups, open studio sessions, and artist-led workshops. With Beams now collaborating, the team plans to broaden programming and accessibility, growing the space into a larger creative hub supporting skill-sharing and connection along the Central Coast.
The team will receive keys to the space on March 1 and plans to launch expanded workshops and programming by mid-March. Offerings will include metalsmithing and jewelry classes led by Beams, along with Fieldwork’s existing drawing sessions, open studio time, and additional guest-led workshops.
Artists and educators interested in hosting workshops can visit fieldworkart.org
Petco Love, Woods Humane Society launch free quarterly vaccine clinics
Woods Humane Society and Petco Love have announced new free monthly and quarterly vaccine opportunities for local pet owners in 2026.
Beginning Saturday, March 14, Woods will host quarterly, appointment-based Pet Vaccine Clinics from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at both its San Luis Obispo and Atascadero locations. Additional quarterly clinics are scheduled for July 10, Sept. 12 and Dec. 11. The nonprofit expects to provide free vaccinations to more than 100 pets per clinic.
Woods will also offer free walk-in vaccine hours at its San Luis Obispo location on the first Wednesday of each month from 2 to 4 p.m., beginning in February.
The clinics will provide free DAPPv Canine and HCP Feline vaccines through Petco Love’s national “Vaccinated and Loved” initiative, which is distributing an additional one million free vaccines to animal welfare partners nationwide. The campaign surpassed three million vaccines distributed in November 2024 and continues expanding to reach more pets in need.
To qualify, pets must be at least six weeks old, healthy and owned. Community outdoor cats are not eligible. Vaccines will not be administered to pets with a history of vaccine reactions or recent illness. Dogs must be leashed, puppies under four months carried, and cats secured in carriers.
Low-cost add-on services — including rabies and Bordetella vaccines, flea treatments, microchips and deworming — will also be available. Appointments for quarterly clinics are required and can be made at WoodsHu maneSociety.or g/Vaccines
In January and February, I had the privilege of observing the Libretto Conservatory, led by highly accomplished jazz musician and composer Michael Ragonese. It was a pleasure and hopeful experience as I watched the students meet Michael, work together to play a few songs, and discuss the joy of music. These young people were fully engaged as
they listened to each other, the audio clips Michael provided, and then played the music. Jazz is often used for relaxation exercises, creative writing, and thoughtful contemplation. The flowing rhythm, smooth tones, and complex harmonies create a calming environment for some and are part of the program’s success.
The program is sponsored by local patrons of the arts, Libretto owners Corey Jordon and Kate Smith, along with the San Luis Obispo Career Technical Education Foundation. This after-school music program, now in its second year, is designed for middle, high, and post-secondary students. Libretto and the SLO CTE Foundation collaborated with Ragonese to bring his world-class musical talent and instruction to the next generation of musicians here on the Central Coast.
Michael is a highly accomplished jazz pianist and composer based
in Los Angeles, with over 25 years of experience in the music industry. After graduating from CSU Northridge, Ragonese has become one of the most sought-after pianists of his generation, performing, touring, and recording with legends such as Barbra Streisand, Walter Smith III, Mark Turner, Chanett Moffett, Bennie Maupin, Dave Kos, Rick Braun, Norman Brown, Alphonso Johnson, Jonn Daversa, Tierney Sutton, Stanley Jordan, Bob Sheppard, and others. Michael debuted as a bandleader in 2019 with the release of “Day to Day,” featuring Walter Smith III. His second album, “Stracci,” was released in 2023 and pays homage to his Italian heritage and classical training.
Just as jazz pioneers like Miles Davis and John Coltrane have influenced generations of music lovers with their expressive performances, the young people participating in this program are making a lasting
impact on our community. Watching a high school sophomore jam with a local professional and then discuss the intricate melodies of a stand-up bass with a middle school student offers hope for the next generation’s potential. Initial rehearsals took place at the Paso Robles Encore Center. The center supports three proven initiatives: The Arts, K-12 Career & Technical Education, and SLO Partners programs. Each of these economic drivers shares the common mission of “Arts-Based Leadership.” The San Luis Obispo Career and Technical Education Foundation (SLO CTE Foundation) is a nonprofit dedicated to improving the lives and economy of our community by supporting and inspiring transformative educational opportunities in our county, such as the Libretto Conservatory.
Academics and business leaders recognize that arts-based instruction is an interdisciplinary approach
If it feels like I’ve been writing a lot lately about Detective Clint Cole in these columns, that’s not by accident. It’s because his work, and the success of our Cold Case Unit, continues to bring long-overdue answers to families who have waited years, sometimes decades, for justice. When cases are solved, especially ones many believed never would be, they deserve to be acknowledged.
The Cold Case Unit of the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office is responsible for investigating unsolved homicides throughout our county.
These are some of the most challenging cases in law enforcement. Detectives must carefully reexamine evidence that may be decades old, review original reports and witness statements, and apply modern technology and investigative techniques that simply did not exist when the crimes first
occurred. While the passage of time can complicate investigations, it can also create new opportunities.
That reality is now evident in the resolution of a case that remained unsolved for more than 40 years.
On November 15, 1983, deputies responded to a report of a suspicious van parked at a turnout along Highway 1, approximately three miles north of Hearst Castle. Inside the van, detectives discovered the body of Dorothy “Toby” Tate. She had been fatally shot. Despite investigative efforts at the time, no suspects were identified, and the case eventually went cold.
For decades, this case remained open, and Ms. Tate’s family lived without answers. That is one of the hardest truths of unsolved homicide investigations and one that continues to drive our Cold Case Unit forward.
After conducting an extensive review of original evidence, reports, and forensic material, Detective Clint Cole reopened the Tate case using modern investigative methods. Among those methods was advanced DNA genealogy analysis, a tool that has transformed the way cold cases are investigated
to learning. Several community and arts organizations are strengthening pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship Arts Partnerships for local students. According to the latest Arts and Economic Prosperity Survey, San Luis Obispo County’s arts and arts-related activities contribute over $30 million to our local economy. The most recent Central Coast Economic Forecast highlights the positive impact of the arts on our economy. Our county thrives on cultural and artistic vibrancy thanks to the dedicated individuals who call the Central Coast home. I encourage any interested arts organizations to partner with our local schools to strengthen our community. It is an honor to serve as your county superintendent, and I hope this article inspires discussion about the power of collaboration.
“Music is a higher revelation than all wisdom and philosophy.” — Ludwig van Beethoven
nationwide.
Blood evidence recovered from the crime scene was submitted for forensic genealogy testing. That analysis identified Steven Richard Hardy as a contributor, a finding that was later confirmed through DNA comparison with a close family member. Additional evidence from the original investigation, including fingerprints recovered from a Coca-Cola can found near the van, placed a second individual, Charley Sneed, at the crime scene. Both Hardy and Sneed were residents of Texas at the time of the murder and are now deceased.
Based on the totality of the evidence, Detective Cole determined beyond a reasonable doubt that Hardy and Sneed were responsible for the murder of Toby Tate. The evidence indicates the crime was likely committed during a burglary or theft, as property belonging to Ms. Tate was later pawned in California. Investigators found no evidence suggesting the involvement of any additional suspects.
As with all cold case resolutions, the Sheriff’s Office requested review by the District Attorney’s Office. That review confirmed sufficient probable cause existed to support prosecution had the suspects been alive. As a result, the case has now been officially closed as “exceptionally cleared.”
This case demonstrates the power of modern forensic science and the dedication required to see a cold case through to its conclusion. Detective Cole’s work on this investigation reflects persistence, attention to detail, and a refusal to accept unanswered questions. He has also been instrumental in helping solve other high-profile cases, including the murders of Kristin Smart and Nancy Woodrum, cases that brought national attention to San Luis Obispo County and underscored the importance of continuing to invest in cold case investigations.
Cold cases are not forgotten cases. They represent a promise to victims and their families that we will continue seeking the truth, no matter how much time has passed. When that promise is fulfilled, it is worth telling the story.
San Luis Obispo County Det. (ret.) Clint Cole (far right) was instrumental in solving the case of Dorothy “Toby” Tate’s 1983 death. Photo courtesy of SLO County Sheriff’s Office
Calendar of Events MARCH
THROUGH MARCH 30
A SHIFT IN PERSPECTIVE & AQUARIUS EXHIBITS
Art Center Morro Bay
835 Main St., Morro Bay
12–4pm
Explore thought-provoking MBAA artwork in the Main Gallery, the juried “Aquarius” watercolor exhibit in the Russell Gallery, and Ross Neder’s blown glass 3D art; artist reception Feb. 22.
MARCH 7
THE SIREN PRESENTS WILLIE WALDMAN PROJECT
The Siren
900 Main St., Morro Bay
8–11pm
Experience an unforgettable night with Willie Waldman and an all-star lineup including Jake Cinninger, Norwood Fisher, and Tony Austin.
MARCH 12
PAINT NITE / CELEBRATE INT’L WOMEN’S MONTH
La Katrina Mexican Cocina
500 Embarcadero, Morro Bay
5:30–7:30pm
Celebrate International Women’s Month with a guided paint-and-sip featuring “Divine Women Cherry Blossoms,” plus food and drink specials; ideal for friends, date night, or solo fun.
MARCH 14
FREE PET VACCINE CLINIC
Woods Humane Society
875 Oklahoma Ave., San Luis Obispo
9am–1pm
Free canine and feline vaccines provided to the public by Woods Humane Society with Petco Love; appointments recommended.
Dantona’s website is jim dantona.com for readers who would like information on the two.
The Clerk-Recorder’s Office put out an “unofficial” list of candidates, and there was a third name under District 2 County Supervisor — Michael Leibowitz-Glavan — but the list also notes his candidacy was withdrawn.
Other races that are open include District 30 State Assembly seat, currently held by Morro Bay’s Dawn Addis, who apparently is running for a third 2-year term.
Shannon Kessler and Susannah Brown are also listed in the Unofficial Candidates List
for District 30, but neither had been qualified as of yet. This means that they had filed papers of intent to run but not yet filed candidacy papers. Addis also had not yet filed official papers, but is expected to do so.
Of interest, County Clerk-Recorder Elaina Cano is on the unofficial list and unofficially being challenged by two others — Vanessa Rozo and Gaea Powell. If Cano officially runs, the deadline for her opponents to get on the ballot would be March 6.
District 4 Supervisor Paulding is on the list and so far unopposed, as is County Tax Assessor Tom Bordonaro Jr.
If readers are not registered to vote they can do so online at registertovote.ca.gov
To register online you will need your Cali-
MARCH 20–22
MORRO BAY CITY-WIDE YARD SALE
Citywide, Morro Bay Times vary
Shop neighborhood yard sales throughout Morro Bay; sale map available March 17 for bargain hunters.
MARCH 21
CENTRAL COAST CRAFT BEER FEST
Sunken Gardens
6505 El Camino Real, Atascadero 12–4pm
Sample 55+ craft breweries, plus cider, wine, seltzers, kombucha, food trucks, vendors, games, live music, and shuttle service; souvenir glass included.
MARCH 25
SPRING AHEAD WITH BBQ
Carla’s Country Kitchen
213 Beach St., Morro Bay 5–6pm
Drive-through BBQ fundraiser by Morro Bay Rotary featuring tri-tip, beans, garlic bread, and salad; $75 per meal, tickets required by March 10.
fornia Drivers License or California Identification Card number; the last four digits of your Social Security number; and your date of birth, according to the Secretary of State’s website (registertovote.ca.gov).
To register to vote in California, you must be:
• A United States citizen and a resident of California 18-years old or older on Election Day;
• Not currently in state or federal Prison for the conviction of a felony; and, Not currently found mentally incompetent to vote by a court.
If you are not yet 18 you can “pre-register” to vote in California, but you must be 16 or 17 years old, and meet all of the other eligibility requirements to vote.
In California, you will automatically be registered to vote on your 18th birthday.
And the COVID-era mail-in ballots for all is still in effect. “All registered voters will be mailed a Vote-by-Mail ballot for the June Primary by May 4,” the County Elections Office said.
“As in recent elections, they’ll have the option to use that mail ballot to vote, or they can exchange it at a polling location to vote in person. [If a person shows up on Election Day without their mail ballot to exchange, it’s not a problem; poll workers will simply confirm that it has not already been returned to the Elections Office before issuing the voter a precinct ballot.],” the office said.
And it’s important that all SLO County voters who need to update their voter registration do so before mail ballots are sent out, the Election’s Office said, especially if they have moved or changed their name.
Readers can check their registration status at: MyVoterStatus.sos.ca.gov or you can register for the first time at RegisterToVote. ca.gov.
If voters have a question about their registration status or any aspect of the voting, they can call (805) 781-5228 to speak with a member of the SLO County Elections staff or email to elections@co.slo.ca.us.
And if you plan to vote by mail, get the ballot into the mail early.
“U.S. Postal Service postmarks are no longer an indication of what day a ballot was mailed, but rather when it is processed [which isn’t necessarily the same day], so anyone who votes by mail should plan ahead and be prepared to put that return envelope in the mail box well before Election Day,” the county said. “SLO County Elections recommends that voters who use their mail ballot to vote return it via an official ballot drop box to ensure its safe and timely delivery.”
The Morro Bay Library normally has a ballot drop box inside by the front desk.
For more information about the primary and general elections, including Voter FAQs and a range of other resources, see: SloVote.gov/June2026 and SloVote.gov/ November2026.
Just Sold
CLIENT CARE IS MY TOP PRIORITY
•Strategic Pricing with Market Insight
•Proven Negotiation Expertise
•Better Homes & Garden Real Estate Marketing, Local, Regional & National
