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Public safety is strongest when it combines effective law enforcement with prevention, support and care for the community. Throughout his career, Santa Cruz mayoral candidate Ryan Coonerty has emphasized the importance of supporting first responders while also strengthening the health and human services that help people and families thrive.
As a county supervisor, Ryan supported efforts to modernize law enforcement and build stronger relationships between public safety agencies and the communities they serve, including the sheriff’s 21st-century policing initiatives. He also worked to strengthen collaboration among the Santa Cruz County Sheriff’s Office, the Santa Cruz Police Department and community service providers.
Ryan has also recognized that not every crisis requires a law enforcement response alone. During his time on the board of supervisors, he supported bringing mental health professionals into partnership with the sheriff’s office. By connecting people experiencing a mental health crisis with trained professionals, these partnerships can help deescalate difficult situations, connect individuals with appropriate services and allow officers to focus on situations where their involvement is most needed.
From supporting programs such as the nurse-family partnership to investing in crisis intervention and community-based services, Ryan has approached public safety as part of a broader commitment to healthy, supported communities.
For Ryan, safer neighborhoods and strong human services are complementary goals — and both are important to building a stronger Santa Cruz. Ryan is the experienced leader Santa Cruz needs.
Michael Pruger
Santa Cruz
