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.
Capitola council advances wharf plan with new restaurant
Master plan due in fall
Adopted Watsonville budget to finish Ramsay Park upgrades
Council members praise $60M in city infrastructure investments
Watsonville police need more time to be proactive, report finds
Consultant says more officers, non-sworn staff needed
Survey points to new restaurant, lifeguard tower on Capitola Wharf
Capitola City Council to direct staff toward Wharf Master Plan on Thursday
Photos: Anti-Trump protest draws more than 10,000 in Santa Cruz
Hundreds gather at Watsonville 'No Kings' rally
How should $7.5 million be spent on water, wildfire and land projects in Santa Cruz County?
Residents’ priorities gathered for Measure Q spending
County could scale back proposed health cuts
Layoffs remain in budget
Felton Fire aims for new contract with Zayante Fire
LAFCO could outline options for troubled agency
Santa Cruz police auditor finds progress, shortcomings
Report calls for more thorough internal investigations
Pension debt looms in Capitola budget
Draft budget avoids cuts, warns of future challenges
Draft Santa Cruz city budget adds staff, foresees deficit
Budget meetings May 26 and 27
Input wanted on future of Capitola Wharf
Survey closes May 31
Missing FEMA money strains Scotts Valley city budget
Reserves may drop by $5 million
Pajaro Valley school district grapples with shrinking budget
Fewer dollars for salaries, more money for facilities with bond money
New wildfire hazard maps, rules for Santa Cruz County residents
Defensible safe, building standards could change
Felton Fire loses chief, service contract with Ben Lomond
Staff, money problems mount
Santa Cruz council to consider taller buildings, new Warriors arena downtown
May 13 vote on downtown expansion plan
Capitola Vice Mayor Alexander Pedersen quits
Home purchase, campaign against him prompts resignation
Cabrillo College prepares for budget cuts
Fewer classes expected to be offered next school year
Santa Cruz wharf repair money, timing remain uncertain
Part of parking lot, sea-lion view to be rebuilt by early 2026
Vacant shops prompt new rules in Downtown Santa Cruz
Plus: Wharf repair plans approved, fire department merger to be studied