The San Luis Obispo City Council unanimously approved a motion on Tuesday, Feb. 5, 2013, to hold a special election in order to fill the seat vacated by Andrew Carter. Although a special election is more expensive than if the council selected the candidate of their choice, I believe this is one of the many costs of living in a democracy. Holding an election gives the citizens of SLO the right to vote and takes that power out of the hands of the current council.

My vote will go to John Spatafore. John not only has experience with budgets and planning as a former SLCUSD trustee, AYSO, and YMCA board member, he also understands the importance of smart city-planning as he chaired the 2010 No on Measure H Committee, which was overwhelming passed by the voters. John has a long history of building consensus and has a sterling reputation for his integrity and dedication to the city of San Luis Obispo.

Please vote for John Spatafore in this very critical special election.

-- Andrea Devitt - Cuesta College Counselor

-- Andrea Devitt - SLO