Santa Cruz Local doesn’t just report the news. We seek to help you understand the news, untangle the issues, and give you the tools to get involved.
The following stories unpack years of context around familiar issues in Santa Cruz County. From road repairs to property taxes to homeless camps to Downtown Santa Cruz growth, these recent “explainer” stories lay out some history, current news and potential fixes in our community.
—Nik Altenberg and Stephen Baxter
Santa Cruz Local’s explainers:
What triggers a homeless camp sweep in Santa Cruz County?
County staff start to draft clearer rules
Earn money by advising Santa Cruz city and county leaders
How to volunteer for a board or commission
Explainer: Public pension debts in Santa Cruz County
Despite reforms, local governments struggle with underfunded retirement payouts
How (and why) to run for school board in Santa Cruz County
Aug. 9 deadline for 32 seats
Explainer: Santa Cruz County’s road problems
County tax hike for roads possible in 2025
Proposed rail-trail route could divert onto streets across Live Oak-Capitola border
Explainer: The rail-trail’s proposed path through Santa Cruz County
Inside the plan to expand Downtown Santa Cruz
Input on downtown expansion plan wanted at June 18 meeting
How to find home insurance in Santa Cruz County
Practical tips to reduce costs, navigate brokers and seek new options
How to get involved in budget hearings in Santa Cruz, Capitola, Scotts Valley, Watsonville
Speak out on public spending in May and June
What else needs explaining? Let us know what we should tackle next at [email protected].