Two candidates seeking to replace Brian Calhoun on the Fresno City Council are spending more on their campaigns than anyone else running for council.

Michael Karbassi, a 24-year-old college student and businessman, spent nearly $65,000 on his campaign during a two-month period ending May 17, according to a report filed with the city clerk.

About two-thirds of the money came out of Karbassi’s pocket, from a $38,000 loan he made to his campaign. He's co-owner of his family's Persian rug business.

His opponent, law professor Andreas Borgeas, spent just over $61,000 in the same period. Borgeas and Karbassi have been filing district mailboxes with campaign literature.

Seven candidates are running in three separate council races. In the same period, businessman Lee Brand spent slightly less than Borgeas in his bid to replace Jerry Duncan on the council seat for northeast Fresno.

The reports show the candidates are primarily taking a low-tech approach to their campaigns. They’re spending more on mass mailings of campaign literature and lawn signs than they are on television and radio ads.

The strategy is cost-effective, since they're targeting voters in their districts, instead of paying more for media with audiences that stretch beyond their council districts and the city.

One exception has been Brand, who spent nearly $30,000 for TV and radio ads in the two-month reporting period. He said electronic media might not be as cost effective, but they provide a strong response. And he’s also blanketing the city with signs and brochures.