Santa Cruz County Local News: Elections & Politics

As voters prepare to cast ballots for District 5 Santa Cruz County supervisor, recent social media posts have resurfaced a 2019 lawsuit against Encompass Community Services. Encompass CEO Monica Martinez is running for District 5 supervisor.

Zayante Fire Chief Jeff Maxwell has noticed a troubling trend. “People think we’re from the County. They have no idea that we’re a volunteer department. All they know is that someone shows up and takes care of business.”

Every two years, Santa Cruz County residents are inundated with requests to vote on measures, propositions and local candidate races. Quadrennially, those attempts to garner votes seem to increase in propensity and quantity, with some local intersections plastered with so many signs that they can’t all be absorbed during an average red light wait.

Several candidates tossed their hats in the ring in early 2024 when Zach Friend announced his retirement from the District 2 seat on the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors.

Several candidates tossed their hats in the ring in early 2024 when Zach Friend announced his departure from the District 2 seat on the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors.

Santa Cruz Local’s Election Guide has clear, comprehensive candidate comparisons, and the most thorough explanations of Santa Cruz County ballot measures.

In more than 30 states, it’s harder than ever to vote this year. But in California, it’s never been easier.

Running a water district is a lot like managing a household—they both need a funding source like a job or a fee structure; they both have bills to pay like maintenance, PG&E, and transportation; and both have to balance income with expenses. If the paycheck fails to keep up with raising costs, something has to change.

School districts in Pajaro Valley, Live Oak, Soquel, Bonny Doon and Scotts Valley are asking voters to approve $525 million in school bonds. The districts cite degraded plumbing, electrical issues and leaky roofs as some of the problems in outdated buildings.

Talk of the Bay host Len Beyea leads a discussion about housing affordability and, in particular, the rent control initiative on California's November ballot, Proposition 33.

Several candidates tossed their hats in the ring in early 2024 when Zach Friend announced his departure from the District 2 seat on the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors.