Candidate workshop ahead of June Primaries

Primary elections are almost five months away and one Central Coast county is already looking ahead hosting a workshop for potential candidates.

Dozens of state and local offices will be voted on in the June primary and several key races are in Santa Cruz County where the workshop was held.

The county clerk, who’s also up for re-election, says the workshop is one of the most important events a candidate can attend.

“Elections are very unforgiving and there’s very exact processes that have to be followed during exact time frames,” Gail Pellerin, the Santa Cruz County clerk said.

Some of the offices that impact Santa Cruz county include Sheriff-Coroner, two county supervisor districts, the district attorney – public administrator office along with state assembly and congressional districts.

Though the workshop was open to those new to the campaign process, sitting officials also came out.

Felipe Hernandez is a Watsonville City Council member and considering a run for county supervisor. He’s already been through an election but says the process is constantly evolving.

“You need, signatures, tons of forms to file with Sacramento, the county, the city,” Hernandez said.

It’s an intensive process even for those looking to stay in their current position.

“It’s an interesting time every time your cycle comes up for reelection so there’s always something to learn,” said Sheriff Jim Hart.

Experienced or not, the county clerk wants everyone to know how to file correctly and get on the June ballot to let the voters decide.

“We want to make sure everybody’s on the same page and has the information they need to achieve their goal,” Pellerin said.

Other candidate information workshops for the November elections will be held in Santa Cruz, Watsonville, Capitola and Scotts Valley.

Those are planned just after the primaries.