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.
Condo project approved on Scotts Valley Drive
Two of 16 units slated for low-income residents
Santa Cruz leaders wrestle with potential district elections
Some council members say change would not favor minority candidates
Santa Cruz outdoor dining could expand
Plus: Homeless Garden Project aims toward Pogonip
Rebuilding woes and potential solutions for CZU Fire survivors
Community Foundation hazard study for homeowners due in September
Santa Cruz sales tax, living wage proposals fail
City voters could decide on sales tax increase in 2022
Scotts Valley to fund after-school care
Skypark to reopen by Sept. 20
Capitola outdoor dining expected to pause in September
Coastal Commission approval needed
Santa Cruz council could tackle sales tax proposal, living wage
Special meeting could happen July 27
Santa Cruz County rail funding search continues
Interim trails could be built on train tracks
Santa Cruz credit union board to discuss building sale for hotel
Board meeting prompted by customers' petition
Santa Cruz sobering center could reopen in January
Fatal fire destroyed Water Street building in 2020
Capitola pursues permanent outdoor dining program
Council approves budget, city labor contracts
Santa Cruz sales tax hike stalls
Plus: Council to revisit overnight RV parking ban
Santa Cruz County budget adds employees, services, savings
Leaders say remote work helps reduce traffic
Advocates target police cuts as Watsonville budget decision looms
Proposed reductions would follow Salinas, Richmond
Watsonville residents push back on police money
City budget revives parks funding, Ramsay Park upgrades
Supervisors approve new South County Service Center, Dominican Hospital expansion
Plus: Syringe waste, opioid harm data programs to be considered
Rising pension costs in Santa Cruz: Your questions answered
Potential ballot measure could raise city tax
Hotel plan could include city land in downtown Santa Cruz
Plus: Homeless services, road safety, Junior Lifeguards decisions made
How Alameda County addresses mental-health crisis response
Police reform series: 911 alternatives in Santa Cruz County, East Bay
Scotts Valley city services, construction could get boost
Budget uncertain for affordable housing rules, public works building