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.
Jury out in Watsonville council member’s sexual assault trial
Jimmy Dutra accused of molesting 12-year-old in 2005
Downtown Santa Cruz hotel could get lower-cost rooms
Coastal Commission to review appeal Sept. 12
Earn money by advising Santa Cruz city and county leaders
How to volunteer for a board or commission
Central Fire’s $221 million bond measure, explained
Money needed to replace aging fire stations, buy new engines, chief says
School board races participation drops in Santa Cruz County
Plus other election previews
Explainer: Public pension debts in Santa Cruz County
Despite reforms, local governments struggle with underfunded retirement payouts
Scotts Valley City Council to weigh business tax measure Aug. 7
Money could help close city budget gap
National Night Out events in Capitola, Scotts Valley, Santa Cruz, Boulder Creek, Watsonville
Free games, demonstrations on Tuesday, Aug. 6
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