Kyle Slattery for Auditor-Controller

You know how you sometimes run into a familiar face on the trail and end up chatting for miles? That’s kind of the vibe around Kyle Slattery’s run for Santa Barbara County Auditor-Controller. According to the *Santa Barbara Independent*, the endorsement comes from a friend and fellow trails advocate — which feels very Santa Barbara. We’re a community that values transparency and fiscal responsibility, but we also appreciate someone who knows the dirt paths as well as the spreadsheets.

This race matters more than most folks realize. The Auditor-Controller is the county’s financial watchdog, making sure every tax dollar is accounted for — from road repairs in Goleta to park maintenance in Carpinteria. Having someone with Slattery’s local roots and collaborative spirit in that role could mean a lot for trust in local government. It’s not the flashiest office, but it’s one that keeps our community running smoothly, just like a well-maintained trail.