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.
Santa Cruz Local’s June election guide is here
You told us what to ask candidates in Santa Cruz, South County and Pajaro. Here’s what they said.
Santa Cruz residents have spoken: housing, homelessness and transportation
We met with residents and listened to their concerns ahead of the June election
Ryan Coonerty holds early fundraising lead in Santa Cruz Mayor’s race
Campaign finances give first look at candidates’ funds
Anti-surveillance organizers want to engage leaders in Watsonville and Capitola, but efforts are slow-going
Local groups to converge in Watsonville to discuss data privacy and Flock Safety cameras
Monterey County officials delay report on Pajaro flood money, again
Spokesperson confirms all $20 million was spent by deadline
Watsonville utilities rates could go up July 1
Fee hikes needed to make repairs, comply with state law
Santa Cruz County eyes potential half-cent sales tax hike to offset federal cuts
Local taxes could be as high as 10.25% if adopted by voters
Pajaro Valley residents describe cost of living concerns as ‘everything goes up except wages’
Noticias Watsonville speaks with over 100 residents ahead of June election
‘You’re not able to just close your door and teach’: PVUSD employees get layoff notices
With fewer instructors, teachers worry students will lose out
Santa Cruz County poised to cancel contract with mental health nonprofit
Also: CORE funding, youth commission
César Chávez reckoning in Santa Cruz County: What could accountability look like to you?
Dolores Huerta: ‘I can no longer stay silent’
PVUSD takes first step towards school closures amid financial crisis
School closure committee applications to open next week
Pleasure Point residents say ‘yes’ to female surfer statue — just not here
County to consider the proposal at April 3 meeting
Santa Cruz County bans federal immigration agents from using county property
Ban covers all county buildings, parking lots and open spaces
Santa Cruz City Council approves Coral Street zoning changes
New buildings could be up to 8 stories
County leaders to discuss locking out immigration agents
Sheriff’s data sharing to undergo audit
PVUSD could soon discuss closing schools — months after a push to consider it
Discussion comes alongside proposal for bond measure
UC Santa Cruz student to challenge city Councilmember Renée Golder
Also: One more joins mayoral race, Justin Cummings secures another term
A Santa Cruz nonprofit offered to step in for an embattled mental health organization. Not everyone is on board.
People First could temporarily run MHCAN’s programs
Three more join race for Santa Cruz Mayor
Field now includes repeat candidates and recalled council member
Will a female surfer statue gain enough support to be built on East Cliff?
Attend a community meeting for the project on March 12