With 3,524 votes counted so far in the Scotts Valley City Council contest, the incumbent, Greg Wimp—the political body’s newest member, was leading the pack—with 39.49% of the vote—chasing after two open seats, with Michael Zeller, a transportation bureaucrat who works down in Monterey County in second place—with 33.69% of the vote—and former Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce head Danny Reber in third—with 26.22%.
“Whatever happens tonight Scotts Valley wins,” said Reber, enjoying himself at an election part hosted at Wimp’s Scotts Valley sandwich shop. “Even if I don’t win, I’m going to keep serving my community.”
Meanwhile, Measure G, the proposed transit occupancy tax increase (TOT, or hotel tax) was on track to pass with 65.14% in favor (only a simple majority is needed).
The regional offshore-drilling-restriction Measure D received overwhelming support, with 84.54% in favor.
Meanwhile, Prop 37, which would create a loan program for middle-income buyers of qualified new homes had achieved 68.2% support.
Ruth Stiles was in first (of three available seats) for Scotts Valley Water District, with Brody R. Knutson in second with 29.74%, Bill Jager in third with 19.01%, followed by Brian Youmans in fourth with 17.5%.
