Of a field of four strong candidates, Bob Begun and Michael Termini offer useful technical expertise.
Capitola has nearly built out its tourist, shopping and residential zones, so ideological battles are few and practical matters—especially financial and planning issues—dominate. Incumbent Bob Begun, who served as city treasurer and focuses mercilessly on recitations of fact (of which he’s encyclopedic), has been a sterling enforcer of financial responsibility. Past planning commissioner and councilmember Michael Termini brings a mastery of planning and housing to the rotunda. Incumbent Sam Storey, defender of social services, and past councilmember Stephanie Harlan, dedicated to preserving mobile home parks, are also strong public servants. But Begun and Termini are our top recommendations.
