So, how best to hear what is on voters minds and address their concerns? Elovitz is bringing the conversation into the community through neighborhood gatherings. He hopes to hear what neighbors have to say about the present and future direction of Buellton, answer questions they may have about where he stands on key issues such as the state of the city’s finances, economic development, and the long-promised downtown district on the Avenue of Flags.

An 18-year resident of Buellton, Elovitz has seen plenty of changes and unfulfilled promises made by elected officials over the years. He became involved with Buellton’s Visioning Process two-years ago because, “I hoped the city was finally ready to deliver on its promise of a vibrant downtown that meets the needs of locals and is attractive to tourists,” he says. But, he became discouraged when there was no coherent plan brought forward to realize the community’s vision and Buellton’s potential. “In my profession,” says Elovitz, “it is my job to analyze complex situations, creatively solve problems, and get the job done — on time and on budget.”

An advertising and marketing professional, Elovitz has successfully run his own freelance business and now works for a private firm that spearheads national and regional advertising campaigns. Locally, he has volunteered in several youth programs, including the Primo Youth Program, and served as an interim councilman while John Connolly was away in military service. “Serving on the council — even for only six months — made me realize how much can be accomplished and that I had skills that Buellton needs to realize its future,” Elovitz shares.

Elovitz lists his top priorities as balancing the budget while maintaining city services, promoting local business and economic development, enhancing Buellton’s small-town character and quality of life, and increasing the community’s voice in local decisions.

The locations and times for these lemonade and cookie gatherings are:

Saturday, October 6 — Firefighter’s Pancake Breakfast at the NW corner of the Albertson’s/CVS parking lot (8 AM to Noon)

Sunday, October 7 — Ice Cream Social at River View Park (2 to 4 PM)

Tuesday, October 9 — Lemonade & Cookies, Oak Park at Second Street (2:30 to 4 PM) and Hwy. 246 at the Avenue of Flags on the NW corner (5 to 7 PM)

Wednesday, October 24 — Rancho de Maria entrance (6 to 7 PM)

There are several additional ways to learn more about Leo Elovitz:

His website offers residents ongoing opportunities to get to know Elovitz, his values and her ideas.

The Buellton Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring the Buellton Candidate Forum for City Council on Tuesday, October 2 at the Santa Ynez Marriott Hotel, in Buellton from 6:30-8:30 p.m. The Forum, which will give residents an opportunity to meet and learn more about Leo Elovitz and the two incumbents running for City Council, will be held in the Jockey Room and is free to the public. This political event is hosted by the Santa Ynez Marriott Hotel. For more information contact the Chamber of Commerce at 688.7829.

“I am concerned about Buellton and its future. It is important that voters know where I stand on issues facing our community,” he says. “It is equally important that I know, first-hand, the concerns and desires of Buellton residents as well as those who work and own property here.”

“Together we can make Buellton better,” Elovitz concludes, “Let me hear from you.”

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