Blum Powwows with Mayors, Obama

Santa Barbara Mayor Marty Blum was among 70 mayors who last week met with President Barack Obama and his cabinet to discuss the $787 billion economic stimulus package passed last week. Mayors argued that money should be funneled directly to cities rather than through the states. Blum exchanged pleasantries with Obama on the subject of Santa Barbara and described the new president as “very engaging, very straightforward.” Obama told mayors that if any of them abused the massive infusion of federal funds he would name names and hold them accountable. While California is slated to receive $26 billion in funds, numbers have not yet been finalized regarding how much Santa Barbara will get. According to federal documents, the aim is to create or save 7,100 jobs in the 23rd Congressional District-which spans Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, and Ventura counties-and 7,300 jobs in the 24th, which encompasses much of Santa Barbara and Ventura counties.