It was a close call Tuesday night, but Democrat Doreen Farr won the race for Third District County Supervisor over Independent Steve Pappas, by a slim 3 percent margin.

The board of supervisors oversees welfare, law enforcement, environmental protection and other county services not typically overseen by city governments. They are the primary government for Isla Vista and other non-city communities.

“The county supervisor is the only elected official in Isla Vista,” Farr said. “The role of the district supervisor largely affects students living in the area. It is the voice that represents the residents of Isla Vista.”

Spirits were high and lively at Hollister Brewing Company in Goleta, where Farr’s supporters gathered, hoping the night would end with a celebratory toast. At about 10 p.m. someone finally shouted, “Isla Vista’s in! 55 to 45!”

Farr’s eyes filled with tears as the crowd roared with applause.

“We were out in Isla Vista everyday. We knocked on the same student’s doors several times,” said Hannah Eckberg, a friend and supporter of Farr.

Farr is particularly interested in improving the connection between Isla Vista residents and herself. As a solution, she will establish a permanent office in Isla Vista that is accessible to college students. “It’s important to have a supervisor that is hands on,” Farr said.

Farr’s accomplishments range from community involvement to business experience, teaching and counseling.

Public health and safety, social services and community planning are the district’s primary concerns, according to Farr. She also supports the Isla Vista Master Plan, an organizational project for improving parking, housing, and environmental conditions.

Meanwhile, a more private affair was held to honor Steve Pappas’ presence in Los Olivos. Wineries, horse ranches, and open valleys grace the land that surrounds Pappas’ hometown. He highlighted his loyalty to the people, concern for the environment and budgeting skills as important parts of his campaign.

“I am not a politician. I am a business owner, school district president, husband and father of two boys,” Pappas said.

Pappas has served on the school board in Los Olivos since 2004. He is currently the board president, and will provide a school budget for over 700 students until his term ends in December.

The third district runs directly along the Gaviota coastline, and ranges across areas like Lompoc, Buellton, Solvang, Goleta and Isla Vista. The district is physically between the two northern, more conservative districts and the two southern, more liberal districts of Santa Barbara County.

“The third district will ultimately decide if the county is going to be progressive or conservative,” Eckberg said.