Government News > Santa Cruz Local delivers deep, nonpartisan coverage of the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors and city councils in Santa Cruz, Watsonville, Scotts Valley and Capitola.
We distill local government decisions in an easy-to-read format and demystify county and city policy with our explainer stories. Our newsletter also lets you know about upcoming local government decisions so you can participate.
Newcomer Mads Realmuto maintains lead in PVUSD race
Realmuto is challenging incumbent Misty Navarro in Area 7
How a Santa Cruz murder case changed the juvenile justice system
Adrian Gonzalez back in court ahead of second extension hearing
‘I’m only violent when I have to be’: ICE visits Santa Cruz jail, protestors respond
Your Allied Rapid Response launches text alert system
PVUSD Superintendent Heather Contreras leaving for another role
Contreras to take a new superintendent job in San Luis Obispo
Watsonville City Council approves new restrictions on Flock cameras
Reduction in cameras, changes to data retention policy, and more
Watsonville leaders to discuss Flock contract
Meeting Tuesday evening, how to submit public comment
Capitola council candidate concerned over indoctrination of children by pro-LGBTQ+ educators, governments
Candidate TJ Welch reaffirms support for the LGBTQ+ community despite scrutiny
Fallout from Watsonville airport land use dispute throws hotel, shopping center into jeopardy
Court blocks new permits in safety zones
Santa Cruz County immigration arrests steadily increase as nationwide arrests surge
Data shows most arrestees had criminal charges or convictions
First look: who is running for Watsonville City Council
Four seats up for grabs in Watsonville for the Nov. 3 election
PVUSD and teachers union reach tentative agreement after 11 months of negotiations
Contract affects class sizes, pay, benefits, stipends
Tell us what local issues you care about. We’ll press candidates running for office.
Help us create a voting guide for Scotts Valley, Capitola, Watsonville, Santa Cruz Mayor and school districts
This PVUSD consultant is paid $4,000 per day. Some trustees want more oversight
Leading Literacy Consulting contract renewal tabled to Aug. 26 meeting
With new funds, Felton Fire looks to hire
Citizen oversight, budget to be discussed next month
Over 100 seats across Santa Cruz County are up for election. Here’s why they matter.
Candidate info sessions Monday and Tuesday
Civic impact: our continued reporting on Flock Safety
How is your police department using Flock surveillance data?
PVUSD hired a bond facilities consultant last year with prior violation for bidding fraud
Consultant paid $50,000 to settle 2016 administrative order
How is your police department using Flock data?
A guide for California reporters and researchers
Why is PVUSD paying a consultant $200,000 for advising amid budget troubles?
Contract approved by board without discussion
Santa Cruz County leaders join lawsuit against planned immigration facility
Gilroy to be the site for a possible ICE detention and processing space