SANTA PAULA : 6 Take Applications for Council Race

Half a dozen Santa Paula residents have picked up applications to run for three seats on the City Council.

The prospective candidates include one incumbent and two members of the Planning Commission.

John Melton, who has served on the council for 16 years, said he will seek reelection to pursue his goal of helping the city continue to develop while maintaining its small-town environment.

Salesman Wayne Johnson, chairman of the Planning Commission, said his goal as a councilman would be to limit growth.

“We’re in an area of upheaval over growth and planning,” Johnson said. “I want the city to be able to choose what comes into the town. Industries need to protect the community and be self-sustaining.”

Robert Borrego, an aide to state Sen. Gary K. Hart (D-Santa Barbara) and a member of the Planning Commission, said 20 years of community service have taught him what Santa Paulans want their city to be.

Jesse Ornelas, a community housing developer, said he wants to serve on the council to work for a balanced housing policy.

Margaret Ely, a legal secretary for the Ventura County public defender’s office, said she opposes the development of prime agricultural land and is interested in promoting social services.

The sixth prospective candidate is local business owner Flo Zakrajshek.

If Borrego and Johnson are elected, the council would have to appoint Planning Commission members to replace them, Mayor Kay Wilson said.

Candidates have until Aug. 10 to file.