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Tony Nunez’s claim that he “saved” Watsonville Community Hospital is simply not credible.
The hospital remains in a fragile financial position, with tens of millions in debt and ongoing concerns raised in a recent audit presented to the Pajaro Valley Health Care District. That’s not what success looks like – and it certainly doesn’t justify rewriting history.
Let’s be clear about what actually happened. In 2022, when Watsonville Community Hospital was on the brink of closing, Santa Cruz County stepped in when others could not. The county led a $61.5 million fundraising effort, contributed millions in public funding, secured state support, coordinated bridge financing and dedicated thousands of staff hours to establish the Pajaro Valley Health Care District.
That work was led by the board of supervisors, county staff and many community partners. That leadership didn’t come from campaign rhetoric – it came from real action led by Supervisor Felipe Hernandez and the board of supervisors. Because of that work, South County families still have access to emergency care, labor and delivery and essential health services today.
Taking credit for a broad, community-driven effort – especially when the hospital is still facing serious challenges – raises real concerns about judgment and accountability. Our community deserves leaders who are honest about both the progress made and the work that remains.
This is not the time for inexperience or political spin. It’s a time for leadership that understands how to navigate complex challenges and deliver real results.
Supervisor Felipe Hernandez has done exactly that – securing over $850 million in investments for the Pajaro Valley, advancing the Pajaro River levee project, improving critical infrastructure, advocating for the opening of the South County Government Center, and expanding parks and youth spaces, including Valle del Pájaro Park.
Born and raised in Watsonville, Supervisor Hernandez is a decorated veteran and a proud graduate of Watsonville High School. He has served our community at every level — as a Watsonville city councilmember, mayor, Cabrillo College board trustee,and now as our current county supervisor – bringing both experience and a deep commitment to the Pajaro Valley.
South County needs steady, experienced leadership – not self-promotion. That’s why I’m supporting Felipe Hernandez for supervisor.
Arcadio Viveros
Former director, Salud Para La Gente
Former chair, Watsonville Planning Commission