Measure C was adopted with 56% of the vote in the Nov. 4, 2025 special election. (Amaya Edwards — Santa Cruz Local/CatchLight Local)
SANTA CRUZ >> Santa Cruz city voters approved a transfer and parcel tax in November to support construction, preservation and rehabilitation of below-market-rate housing. Measure C’s $96 annual parcel tax went into effect on July 1, and eligible homeowners have until July 24 to apply for an exemption.
Residents do not have to pay the parcel tax if the house they own is their primary residence and they earn 60% or less than area median income, or are 65 or older and earn 80% or less than area median income.
Qualified residents must complete the exemption form and mail required documents to Workforce Affordability Act Exemption, 1200 Pacific Ave., Suite 290, Santa Cruz, CA 95060. All documents and the application must be received by July 24.
Required documents include:
- A utility bill or property tax statement to prove the home is a primary residence.
- A CalFresh, Pacific Gas and Electric Co. CARE Program document, tax documents or Social Security documents to prove income level.
- Property tax bill to prove ownership.
- For the senior exemption, a copy of a driver’s license, birth certificate, Medicare card or passport to prove age.
Residents are advised to redact any sensitive information from documents, including Social Security numbers.
For assistance and questions, residents can email [email protected] or call city finance analyst Jessi Bond at (831) 420-5068. Bond said during an informational webinar on Tuesday that she can be reached in person 1-4 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays to file paperwork and answer questions at the City Manager’s Office, 809 Center St., room 10.
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Nik Altenberg is a bilingual reporter and assistant editor at Santa Cruz Local. Nik Altenberg es reportera bilingüe y editora asistente para Santa Cruz Local.
