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 voters to weigh sales tax hike
Projected budget shortfall blamed on inflation, pension costs
Soda tax heads to Santa Cruz city ballot
Litigation risk follows council member’s court win
Highway 1 cost overruns to be discussed by Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission
Meeting set for Thursday, Aug. 1
Capitola council advances plan for new off-leash dog park
Jade Street community center renovation heads to bid
How (and why) to run for school board in Santa Cruz County
Aug. 9 deadline for 32 seats
Better jobs, affordable housing on the minds of Aptos voters
Some residents propose empty-home tax
Scotts Valley voters want housing, family needs addressed
More businesses, improved bike transit wanted
New state laws and recent votes from Santa Cruz County legislators
Gas stoves, LGBTQ+ protections and shelter money for Santa Cruz
Capitola council candidates asked to address spending transparency, transportation
More community input, bike safety wanted
Roads, power, disaster prep are top priorities for San Lorenzo Valley voters
Residents ask next county supervisor for better communication
Watsonville voters could open city commissions to non-citizens
Two questions to appear on Nov. 5 ballot
Explainer: Nov. 5 bond measure for Pajaro Valley Unified School District
$315 million could be raised for school repairs, new buildings
Inside the plan to expand Downtown Santa Cruz
Input on downtown expansion plan wanted at June 18 meeting
Psychiatrists, firefighters are top earning Santa Cruz County public employees
Top 20 salaries include law enforcement, county administrators
Less money for road maintenance in approved Santa Cruz County budget
Smaller overall budget, more debt
Capitola adopts city budget
Money for roads, bike track, pensions
Pro-Palestinian protesters arrested at UC Santa Cruz
Authorities start to dismantle camp
Santa Cruz city budget avoids cuts, skips savings
Long-term shortfall persists despite sales tax hike
How to get involved in budget hearings in Santa Cruz, Capitola, Scotts Valley, Watsonville
Speak out on public spending in May and June
Cannabis dispensary approved at former Emily’s Bakery in Santa Cruz
School administrators lead opposition
Photo essay: UC Santa Cruz students urge divestment from weapons makers
Sacramento State starts socially responsible investment policy