About this Event
Watsonville City Council candidate forum: District 5 & 7
Hear directly from the candidates about the issues shaping Watsonville.
With the November election approaching, voters will have an opportunity to hear directly from candidates for Watsonville City Council at a forum presented by Lookout Santa Cruz and the Pajaro Valley Chamber of Commerce.
Join us Wednesday, Sept. 30, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Watsonville Civic Plaza for an evening of conversation and questions about the future of Watsonville.
Lookout Community Voices Editor Jody K. Biehl will moderate the forum, with questions from the organizers and an opportunity for audience members to submit questions.
Candidates will discuss their priorities, experience and vision for Watsonville, including issues such as economic development, housing, public safety, city services and the future of the community.
District 5: Angel Zuniga is challenging incumbent Casey Clark. This district encompasses central Watsonville, including portions of Freedom Boulevard and Main Street, as well as the Struve and Watsonville sloughs.
District 7: Nancy Bilicich and Ed Acosta are running to replace Councilmember Ari Parker, who is terming out after eight years in public office. The district covers the eastern corner of Watsonville, including Beck Street, Lake Avenue and Vermont Street, as well as Pajaro Village, one of the city’s largest senior communities.
The city council is Watsonville’s legislative and policymaking body. Councilmembers help set local priorities, approve the city budget, establish policies and oversee the services and programs that affect residents and businesses throughout the city.
Event details
Wednesday, Sept. 30 | 6-8 p.m.
Watsonville Civic Plaza, Community Room - 6th floor
Check-in begins at 5:45 p.m. to ensure a prompt 6 p.m. start. Light refreshments will be provided.
Parking is available in the Watsonville Civic Plaza parking garage. Enter the garage via Rodriguez Street and take your vehicle to the sixth floor. Parking is free at this time of day.
Space is limited and registration is required.
All registered event attendees will be subscribed to Lookout’s free weekday newsletter, Morning Lookout.
Can’t make it?
The forum will be streamed live on Facebook and available to watch afterward. Visit the Lookout Santa Cruz Facebook page beginning at 6 p.m. to tune in.
Find all of Lookout’s 2026 election coverage here.
About Lookout Santa Cruz
Lookout Santa Cruz is an independent digital news organization dedicated to serving Santa Cruz County with in-depth, trustworthy journalism. From local government and education to housing, business and community life, Lookout keeps residents informed and engaged in the issues shaping their communities.
Stay connected with Lookout wherever you are – download the Lookout Santa Cruz app or sign up for our free newsletters.
About the Pajaro Valley Chamber of Commerce
The Pajaro Valley Chamber of Commerce works to support and strengthen the local business community and promote economic vitality throughout the Pajaro Valley. Through advocacy, networking and community engagement, the Chamber provides a voice for local businesses and helps foster a thriving regional economy.
Event venue & nearby stays
Community Room Watsonville, 275 Main Street, Watsonville, United States
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