Meet Natalia Alarcon

The City of Carpinteria, like many municipalities throughout California, is facing the critical challenge of increasing housing availability. Specifically, Carpinteria is tasked with building a significant number of new housing units, with a considerable portion designated for low and very low-income households. To meet these goals effectively in the coming years, we must adopt innovative strategies that actively involve and engage our community.

I am committed to educating residents about the opportunities for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and exploring partnerships with local organizations to expand affordable housing options. Furthermore, establishing an affordable housing committee will be vital in bringing together community members and stakeholders, fostering collaboration and the exchange of ideas. Together, we can develop housing solutions that meet the diverse needs of all Carpinteria residents.

In recent years, California has passed a number of housing laws aimed at tackling the housing crisis, which have shifted local control away from cities. As a result, Carpinteria faces the huge challenge of accommodating growth in ways we haven't seen before.  However, this also presents us with an opportunity to embrace development while preserving the unique charm and natural beauty of our community.

Carpinteria is nestled between stunning coastlines and picturesque foothills, making it a truly special place to live. My commitment is to find a balance between new housing and the preservation of our cherished open spaces. I aim to ensure that any development reflects our community’s values, enhancing our quality of life while safeguarding the beauty of Carpinteria for future generations. Together, we can foster sustainable growth that honors our environment and our way of life.

In July, the City of Carpinteria presented its annual budget for approval, revealing a significant deficit. This underscores the challenges we face with stagnant revenue and rising expenditures, particularly related to the increasing costs of essential services like the Sheriff’s contract. As we work through these financial hurdles, it’s essential to explore effective solutions to secure a stable economic future for our community.

To strengthen our budget moving forward, I advocate for exploring new revenue streams that will support our initiatives. Additionally, we should implement strategic cost-saving measures, such as reviewing existing contracts for efficiencies and seeking partnerships that can enhance our services without raising expenses. By adopting a proactive and conservative budgeting approach, we can maintain the financial health of our city while continuing to invest in the well-being of all Carpinteria residents.