2026 Election LIVE Forums - Oceanside City Council District 2 Candidates

This was a live candidate forum for the Oceanside City Council District 2 election held on September 24, 2026, hosted by KOCT Television. The candidates discussed key local issues including Measure S, a proposed half-cent sales tax expected to raise approximately $10 million over 10 years for city projects, with opinions divided on its necessity amid a cost of living crisis. They also debated Measure R, a charter amendment related to prevailing wage requirements on city projects, highlighting concerns about impacts on small contractors and labor unions. Infrastructure priorities such as road repairs, bridge widening, and sewer and water system improvements were discussed, with candidates emphasizing the need for transparency and community engagement in development projects. Housing was a major topic, focusing on affordable and public housing, local control versus state mandates, and challenges with development regulations. Homelessness was addressed with calls for compassionate, social work–oriented approaches and critiques of current spending on private security. The forum highlighted differing views on fiscal responsibility, development, and community involvement in city governance and budgeting.