Santa Cruz County has opened its annual groundwater monitoring period for properties that rely on on-site wastewater treatment systems. The testing period runs through Jan. 31.
Housing & Development
Posted inPolitics & Policy
Entering fourth term, Scotts Valley Mayor Donna Lind takes reins during time of significant change for city
Donna Lind has been a constant in Scotts Valley, having served the city in various roles for nearly 60 years. As she enters her fourth term as mayor, Scotts Valley faces major changes, largely in the form of state-mandated growth.
Posted inWestside / Downtown
What people in downtown Santa Cruz are looking forward to in 2026, and what they’re worried about
When Lookout photojournalist Kevin Painchaud talked to people on the street in downtown Santa Cruz about what they’re looking forward to in 2026, the answers varied – but housing was a consistent theme.
Posted inLatest News
Newsmakers 2025: Those we lost
Santa Cruz County lost a number of prominent people in 2025, including activists, journalists, artists and academics.
Posted inOpinion from Community Voices
California should tax million-dollar, part-time homes to help first-gen students get to college
First-generation students lack the extra help with exams and college applications that rich kids’ families can buy. A new program and tax could change that, writes Alondra Martinez, a Stanford University senior.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
Santa Cruz Planning Commission votes to end public hearings for fully affordable housing projects; city council to hear item in January
The City of Santa Cruz Planning Commission decided that it will drop public hearings for fully affordable housing projects, requiring only ministerial approval. The item will head to the Santa Cruz City Council for a first read in January.
Posted inHousing & Development
California Supreme Court decision maintains public access to Aptos beachfront walkway, county says
The California Supreme Court has declined to review a challenge by a Rio Del Mar homeowners association, effectively upholding lower-court rulings that an 800-foot walkway along Seacliff State Beach in Aptos is public property. Santa Cruz County officials say the decision leaves no further avenue for appeal and moves the case closer to resolution, including the removal of fences that currently block public access.
Posted inHousing & Development
Current, former residents file lawsuit against UC-owned Hilltop apartments
Nineteen current and former residents have filed a lawsuit against Hilltop apartments and property manager Greystar, alleging negligence, substandard repairs and habitability violations after sewage flooding, mold and unresolved maintenance issues in the University of California-owned complex.
Posted inHousing & Development
Santa Cruz planning commission to consider dropping public hearings for fully affordable housing projects
The City of Santa Cruz Planning Commission will consider getting rid of public hearings for 100% affordable housing projects at its meeting on Thursday evening.
Posted inHousing & Development
Supervisors order review of 57-unit Capitola Road project
The Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors will review the application for a 57-unit housing project led by local developer Workbench that used a state provision that allowed the project to override local jurisdiction.