Election Day · November 3, 2026
Hello, I'm Ricardo Batalla. I grew up in District 1 on Williams Street. My focus is simple: support our youth, make housing affordable, and keep our neighborhoods safe. That's what a strong, thriving Santa Maria is built on!
Santa Maria Police Officers Association
Santa Maria Police Association of Middle Management
Santa Maria Firefighters, Local 2020
LiUNA! Local 220
IBEW Local 413
UA Local 114
Central Coast Labor Council, AFL-CIO
Home Builders Association of the Central Coast
SEIU Local 620
Santa Maria Joint Union High School District Faculty Association
Proud to be endorsed by the police officers and firefighters who protect our neighborhoods — and the laborers who build them. More on the way.
A campaign focused on building a community where you and everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Creating opportunities, mentorship, and strong programs for our next generation.
Read moreSupporting our police, firefighters, veterans, and the heroes who keep our community safe.
Read moreHonest communication, responsible decisions, and accountability you can trust.
Read moreImproving roads, sidewalks, lighting, and public spaces for a safer Santa Maria.
Read moreAddressing homelessness with accountability, resources, and practical solutions that protect our neighborhoods.
Read moreProtecting taxpayer dollars through responsible spending, smart budgeting, and accountable decisions.
Read moreHelping local businesses grow, create jobs, and strengthen Santa Maria’s economy.
Read moreAddressing traffic, crime, and neighborhood concerns to keep families and communities safe.
Read moreJoin us at the upcoming District 1 Town Hall Meeting to share your questions, concerns, and ideas and stay connected with what is happening in our community.
Stay tuned for upcoming District 1 community events.
Ricardo Batalla
Ricardo and his wife — his high school sweetheart from Pioneer Valley — became parents at a young age. In his words, “that experience shaped my determination, work ethic, and commitment to building a better future for my family and community.” He worked nights as a custodian, cleaning classrooms and the student union, while going to school during the day.
Santa Maria raised me — now I work for Santa Maria.
Some residents don't know where to turn when they have a concern — others feel their voices aren't being heard.
Residents want to feel safe in their neighborhoods, be able to afford to live and raise their families here, find good-paying jobs, and trust that the city is managing growth and taxpayer dollars responsibly. I want residents to feel that their voices matter — and that their elected leaders are present in the community, not just at City Hall.
Tap play to watch — straight from his Instagram.
Sources: MIT Living Wage Calculator (Santa Maria–Santa Barbara metro) & U.S. Census / market home-affordability data, 2026. California minimum wage: $16.90/hr.
Ricardo didn't parachute in. Every step of his life is tied to this valley — and to the families who make it run.
Raised in the same District 1 he represents today. Oakley Elementary to Pioneer Valley High.
Led a team, managed budgets and payroll — learned early what it takes to run things right.
Stood up for the students who needed an advocate most.
Leads programs for 2,000+ local kids and 150+ staff across the Santa Maria Valley.
When the seat came open, Ricardo answered the call to serve his neighborhood on the City Council.
I am a product of this community. My campaign is about giving back to the city that raised me — putting people first, listening to every voice, and working with integrity and accountability to create a stronger future for all of Santa Maria.Ricardo BatallaSanta Maria City Council, District 1
“No single elected official can solve every problem alone. Progress requires collaboration between local government, residents, businesses, educators, nonprofits, and community organizations.” Add your name and be part of it.