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.
Felton Fire loses chief, service contract with Ben Lomond
Staff, money problems mount
Santa Cruz council to consider taller buildings, new Warriors arena downtown
May 13 vote on downtown expansion plan
Capitola Vice Mayor Alexander Pedersen quits
Home purchase, campaign against him prompts resignation
Cabrillo College prepares for budget cuts
Fewer classes expected to be offered next school year
Santa Cruz wharf repair money, timing remain uncertain
Part of parking lot, sea-lion view to be rebuilt by early 2026
Vacant shops prompt new rules in Downtown Santa Cruz
Plus: Wharf repair plans approved, fire department merger to be studied
Santa Cruz, Scotts Valley, Central Fire explore merger
Study expected to consider more shared services
Santa Cruz City Council to weigh wharf repairs
Bike lanes, military equipment policy also to be considered
Santa Cruz County could seek payout for water contamination
Plus, supervisors to discuss cannabis lounges and election rules
Pajaro Valley Unified school trustees tackle ethnic studies
April 1 town hall at Aptos High School
Harvey West Park upgrades to be discussed in Santa Cruz on April 2
Sports fields, bike areas could be revamped
Transportation commission approves intercity rail concept, seeks cost savings for bridges
Bridge work anticipated to cost nearly $1 billion
Social Security Administration ‘gutting’ described by Santa Cruz congress member, former agency head
Steps to help protect your benefits
Where and when is street sweeping in the city of Santa Cruz?
Tows, parking tickets up to $144 possible
Tips for Dreamers in Santa Cruz County as DACA faces uncertain future
Renew documents, follow policy changes and consider a lawyer
Teacher layoffs could be delayed, Pajaro Valley superintendent says
March 15 notice deadline may pass, more reserve money tapped
School districts grapple with declining enrollment in Santa Cruz County
Pajaro, Soquel, Scotts Valley leaders discuss money challenges
Santa Cruz wildfire plan aims to coordinate evacuations, water delivery, resources
Plus, a city budget update
President’s order casts uncertainty on Santa Cruz County rail trail money
$19.5 million grant hangs in balance
Workforce board aims to solve Santa Cruz County employment problems
Public forums in January, February
Rent hikes to be tackled by Santa Cruz City Council
City law could define rules for expiring below-market-rate units