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.
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
New training facility proposed for Santa Cruz Police and Fire
Activists fear militarization, outsize spending
Transportation commission reaffirms support for rail trail
County supervisors to revisit money decision April 30
State money for rail trail could transfer to regional transportation commission
Idea to be floated at special meeting Thursday
‘Bleak’ outlook for Santa Cruz County budget
Less money for road repairs, fewer public health staff proposed
One-way traffic on West Cliff quashed by Santa Cruz City Council
Grant application will not be made for pilot program
Downtown Santa Cruz hotel approved by city council
Outdoor restaurant to be built near river
What went wrong at Live Oak School District
Money problems explained, and how other school districts compare