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.
Watsonville council approves $10 million for parks, roads, services
Measure R sales tax hike brings in new money
Capitola Wharf repairs, additions on tap
Reopening anticipated next summer
Santa Cruz city leaders to consider higher fees, potential new taxes
Unfunded pensions help drive projected budget deficit
Campaign finance probe remains unresolved in Santa Cruz County
State leaders aim to reduce 1,300 case backlog
Homeless data system to reboot in Santa Cruz County
Upgrades aim to improve coordination, add funding
More diverse Santa Cruz County residents wanted for commissions
June events planned to attract new volunteers
Court ruling complicates natural-gas phase out in Santa Cruz County
Cooks, builders discuss changes
Watsonville residents’ input wanted on housing plans
May 3 public workshop on city’s General Plan update
Eight-story apartment complex approved on Front Street in Santa Cruz
Plus: Plans form to meet state housing goals
Santa Cruz harbor bridge project aims to start in late summer
Upgrades for earthquake safety, cycling planned for decades
Rail-trail permits approved in Santa Cruz, part of Live Oak
‘Ultimate’ path expected next to train tracks
Branciforte library set to reopen in late spring
Plus: Live Oak annex to finish in summer, Aptos library in fall
Downtown Santa Cruz library project approved by city council
Plus: Bike lane to be added to Laurel Street, some parking removed
Shared e-bike system to return to Santa Cruz County
Docked bikes expected in Santa Cruz in summer
Soquel Drive bike lane project expected in summer
Improved traffic flow, safety on tap
Santa Cruz police respond to call for timely investigations
Plus, sidewalk vending rules updated
Santa Cruz city budget shows signs of recovery, but long-term problems persist
Pension costs remain more than 10% of General Fund spend
Accessible playground plan advances in Capitola
Plus: Free holiday parking starts
Nov. 8, 2022 election: Santa Cruz County school board early results
PVUSD trustee candidates Kimberly De Serpa, Olivia Flores win seats
Nov. 8, 2022 election results: Scotts Valley City Council
Derek Timm, Allan Timms win seats
Nov. 8, 2022 election: Watsonville City Council early results
Ari Parker leads Nancy Bilicich in District 7 race