Supervisor Steve Lavagnino announced on 7/19 that he would run for reelection in the 2018 race to represent the 5th District, covering much of the Santa Maria Valley. Lavagnino, a moderate Republican, was first elected to the board in 2010. During June’s budget hearings, he implored his colleagues to compromise, saying he has “moved to the middle.” He is not known for toeing the Republican Party line. For achievements, he cites approving the North County jail, funding fire services, and hosting the annual benefit Veterans Stand Down. He has $116,000 cash on hand, according to his office, and is currently unopposed.