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.
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
Mental health clinicians at PVUSD speak out: cuts will be ‘devastating’ for students
As layoffs loom, some clinicians are leaving the district early
Environmental advocate to challenge Coonerty for Santa Cruz Mayor
Two local seats for June primary remain uncontested
Ryan Coonerty is running for Santa Cruz mayor: what to know about his campaign so far
Four things to know about the long-time politico
Epstein victim grew up in Santa Cruz County, latest DOJ release reveals
Jeffrey Epstein traveled to Santa Cruz, deposition says
Santa Cruz County ICE updates: Two visits, at least one arrest since November
Jan. 18 visits to Watsonville, Freedom
Santa Cruz County election preview: 2026
June primary: key dates, incumbents and new candidates
Photos: Inside the annual homeless census in Watsonville
Nearly 250 volunteers spread out across county for point-in-time count
Rep. Jimmy Panetta condemns tactics by ICE and DHS
Community leaders stand against ICE
Santa Cruz County supervisors meeting yields progress for veterans, immigrant resident protection
Committee formed to prepare for federal immigration enforcement
Scotts Valley calls on residents to join the Citizens Academy
Learn about local governance and city operations
‘ICE Out for Good’ protest planned Friday in Scotts Valley
Plus: Capitola paddle out against ICE on Sunday
Learn more about Capitola politics and public safety
Discover Capitola offers residents a chance to get involved for free
Watsonville council advances oversized vehicle ordinance despite concerns
City leaders say law is not meant to target homeless people
Santa Cruz leaders vote to terminate contract with Flock
Council leaves the door open for replacement license plate readers
Anti-ICE protest planned Sunday in Santa Cruz
Activists decry killing of legal observer in Minneapolis
Santa Cruz could end Flock camera contract next month
Discussion set for Tuesday’s council meeting
Get paid to weigh in on Santa Cruz city issues
Advisory commission applications due Jan. 11
Santa Cruz County immigration advocates call on attorney general to adopt child care safety plan
New state law aims to reduce family separations