Supervisor Bob Nelson has represented the 4th District of Santa Barbara County since 2021. In his role Mr. Nelson plans to continue his work as a taxpayer advocate, ensuring government efficiency and limiting wasteful spending, while prioritizing a number of local issues including expanding services for unincorporated communities, public safety, campaign finance reform, homelessness, and infrastructure and maintenance.

Prior to being elected as Supervisor, Mr. Nelson held the position of Chief of Staff for Fourth District Supervisor Peter Adam from 2013-2021 and worked with constituents and community leaders providing them with the solutions and information needed to overcome personal or professional issues and find success at the county level. Before serving on the Board of Supervisors, Mr. Nelson had a career as an educator and taught Business Education at both Pioneer Valley and Righetti High Schools, coached water polo and swimming, and was named “Teacher of the Year” by the Santa Maria Sun in 2003.

Mr. Nelson earned his Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Vanguard University, and his teaching credential through Chapman University. Supervisor Bob Nelson and his wife Jamie are both small business owners who live in Orcutt with their three children, Andrew, Avery and Zeke. Raised in Orcutt and a graduate of Righetti High School, where Nelson first met his wife, he has been steadfast in his dedication to a region in which he is proud to call home.