View in Browser Our Journalism Needs Your Support Please Donate Today
California Local Logo
Graphic which spells out The Newsletter.


By Sharan Street
Published May 02, 2022

Image credit: Andi111   Shutterstock.com

5-2-22: Home Is Where We Want to Be

Given that it’s a central issue in Santa Cruz and across the state, California Local reporters often cover issues related to homelessness. We also curate stories on the topic from our local media allies, and offer information on local groups dedicated to helping solve this pernicious social ill. You can always find these resources on our homelessness topic page.

But this week’s newsletter is aimed toward those who do have homes—some with yards, some without, but most of them with patches of green that can be shared with other denizens of Santa Cruz. In a piece published on Earth Day, science writer Kimberly Hickok shares some tips on how to make one’s outdoor space more welcoming to native flora and fauna.

Another article that’s helpful on the home front is Jonathan Vankin’s roundup of a few of the most significant ways in which citizens can reduce their residential water consumption, from hunting for hidden water leaks to avoiding water-intensive consumer goods.

But home ownership can have its headaches, as explained in an exploration into the dark side of code enforcement. Code violations, even after they're fixed, can cost struggling homeowners their homes. We share some of the horror stories and look for possible solutions.

Finally, we end with a bit of local serendipity: a celebration of home births and midwifery, courtesy of a video presented by the San Lorenzo Valley Museum.


Featured Stories

Saving the planet, one house at a time. Plus, cautionary tales about code enforcement.


Code Violations and ‘Excessive Fines’: Californians Battle Cities

Seemingly minor code violations can cost struggling homeowners thousands.
Code violations, even after they're fixed, can cost struggling homeowners their homes. Some have seen fees and fines into the six figures even after repairs. Here are some of the horror stories. But what can be done about it?

Backyard Ecology

From the coast to the mountains, Santa Cruz County’s landscape has given way to human development. But residents can make all parts of the region more hospitable to native species.
Tips for creating wildlife-friendly habitat in Santa Cruz County, no matter where you live.

Birth Happens

The Santa Cruz Mountains were the cradle of a radical home birthing movement.
In the 1970s, a group of women started a movement to bring birthing back home.

How to Save Water: Simple Steps You Can Take

Saving water has become more crucial in California’s drought crisis.
Saving water is more important than ever in California, due to the region’s worst drought conditions in 1,200 years. Here are some steps you can take to help.


Impact Report Image for decorative use


California Local logo

Santa Cruz County's Homepage

Our overview page for Santa Cruz County is updated daily with the latest state and local news, weather alerts, local government announcements and local blog posts and news snippets from community groups and individuals.
Direct your browser to santacruz.californialocal.com to catch up on the latest news in California and Santa Cruz County. Bookmark the link and visit often, there's a lot happening in your community!


Get to Know a Group

Santa Cruz Baroque Festival logo Santa Cruz Baroque Festival

The Santa Cruz Baroque Festival has been active since 1974, presenting early music as it sounded in its own era. Members strive for artistic excellence while transmitting the joy of Baroque music to future generations.

→ Learn more

  California Local Pin Marker  

Recent Local News

→ View All

• Skunk Train Owners, Fort Bragg City Officials Battle Over Expansion

Santa Cruz isn’t the only town the future of a rail line is freighted with controversy. There’s a battle brewing between the owners of the historic Skunk Train and city officials in coastal Fort Bragg, and the outcome could shape the character of Mendocino County.

(04/30/2022) → Read the full The Sacramento Bee report

• Officials Mark Highway 17 Wildlife Undercrossing Construction

A dangerous bend on Highway 17 in Los Gatos, dubbed Laurel Curve, is notoriously deadly for wildlife attempting to cross the busy throughway. But after a decade of prep, work has begun on a wildlife underpass for at-risk species, such as mountain lions.

(04/28/2022) → Read the full Santa Cruz County Sentinel report

• California Accuses Exxon Mobil of Deceiving Public About Plastics Recycling

California’s attorney general has announced a first-of-its kind investigation into the fossil fuel and petrochemical industries for their alleged role in causing and exacerbating a global crisis in plastic waste pollution.

(04/27/2022) → Read the full report

• Project Homekey Names First Recipient in Santa Cruz County

A San Lorenzo Valley homeless veterans housing project received a more than $6 million boost with the announcement of a state Project Homekey grant award. The new Veterans Village project will add 20 units of permanent supportive housing serving veterans.

(04/27/2022) → Read the full Santa Cruz County Sentinel report

• Empty Homes Tax Garners Needed Signatures

Campaigners for the Empty Homes Tax submitted their petition to the city clerk with more than 6,000 signatures, according to campaign manager Cyndi Dawson. Petitioners only needed to gather 3,848 signatures.

(04/27/2022) → Read the full Santa Cruz County Sentinel report

• UC System to Cover Tuition for California Residents Who Are Native Americans

The University of California system this fall will begin to pay the tuition for California residents who are Native American. The decision could affect more than 600 students. UC President Michael Drake said the move would “advance critical efforts to expand student diversity and make the University of California more affordable.”

(04/25/2022) → Read the full KCRA NBC 3 report

• Santa Cruz City Council Unanimously Votes ‘No’ on Measure D

The Santa Cruz City Council voted unanimously for a resolution opposing Measure D. That was not a shock to the YES Greenway collective, which says it is pleased the topic will ultimately be decided by voters.

(04/25/2022) → Read the full Lookout Local report

• MAH’s ‘Strange Weather’ Explores Humanity’s Predicaments Through Art

“Strange Weather,” an exhibition running through Aug. 14, marks a collaboration between the Museum of Art & History and UC Santa Cruz’s Institute of the Arts & Sciences.

(04/25/2022) → Read the full Lookout Local report