Just over five weeks after suffering a heart attack while paddleboarding with friends, Santa Barbara City Councilmember Eric Friedman is returning to his council duties — at least virtually — on Tuesday, May 13. On Monday, Friedman told the Independent his recovery is “going well” and that he continues to improve each day while preparing for his return to work.
“I look forward to once again participating in council meetings and am optimistic that I will be able to attend in chambers soon,” Friedman said. “Returning to council is a major step for me, and one I have been working to achieve.”
Friedman, a thoughtful councilmember known to drop deep literary and historical references in his council comments on the dais and equally known for his work as an employee at Trader Joe’s, had received an outpouring of support from constituents and community members sending well-wishes, meals, and cards throughout his recovery…