VENTURA COUNTY: FOURTH DISTRICT SEAT MAY HEAD TO RUNOFF.

Byline: ERIC LEACH Staff Writer

SIMI VALLEY -- Ventura County Supervisor Judy Mikels was neck and neck with her two challengers for the 4th District seat, while incumbent Linda Parks appeared well ahead in the 2nd District.

Mikels and challengers Jim Dantona and Peter Foy spent hundreds of thousands of dollars in their quest to represent the district that includes the Simi Valley-Moorpark areas.

If no one wins more than 50 percent of the primary vote, the top two will be in a runoff in November.

Mikels ran on her record representing the area since 1994, saying she helped keep Ventura County government in good financial condition while expanding services for her district.

Foy, a Republican businessman and rancher, entered the race late but waged an aggressive campaign emphasizing cutting government waste and boosting support for law enforcement and fire protection.

Dantona, a political consultant, attacked Mikels, saying she favored developers in conflicts with residents.

Parks, who chairs the five-member board, took an early lead against environmental consultant Joe Gibson.

Parks ran on her reputation of protecting the county's open space and environment, while Gibson, who is chairman of the board of the Conejo Recreation and Park District, stressed the need for recreational and educational opportunities for children and families.

Incumbent Ventura County Clerk Philip Schmit also took an early lead against challenger Daniel Martinez, the Oxnard city clerk.

eric.leach(at)dailynews.com

[phone]