Measures K and L: We need to invest in our collective future

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As residents of Santa Cruz County, we take pride in our community’s strength, resilience and commitment to a better future. In the upcoming election, Measures K and L stand out as crucial investments that will shape the well-being and sustainability of our beloved community.

These measures are not only individually significant but also complementary, addressing the diverse needs of both Santa Cruz County and the City of Santa Cruz. Measure K holds the key to funding critical programs and services across the county, providing essential support for front-line workers, emergency response services and community resilience. Meanwhile, Measure L focuses on backing critical priorities within the City of Santa Cruz, addressing local challenges such as homelessness, environmental preservation and public safety.

Importantly, the collaboration between the city and county has been a driving force behind the progress we’ve witnessed on various fronts, from effective emergency response strategies to initiatives like severe weather shelter, climate resilience projects and CORE Investments, a program supporting safety net services for vulnerable populations, including immigrants and older residents. The city and county are working together to improve the community – and Measures K and L are a critical part of that effort.

Measure K will fortify the backbone of our community – the front-line workers who dedicate their lives to our well-being. From first responders to teachers, emergency personnel to nurses, these essential individuals face challenges in finding affordable housing. Measure K will provide funds to make housing more accessible for these workers, ensuring they can continue to serve our community with the dedication and care that we depend on.

Measure K also addresses the challenges of climate change and natural disasters head-on, allocating funds for wildfire prevention programs, flood mitigation efforts and disaster recovery services. It will make our community more resilient, accelerating storm repairs and providing funding to enhance the safety and condition of our local roads and infrastructure. Measure K also prioritizes mental health services for children and other vulnerable populations including those struggling with substance abuse, and invests money in our lovely local parks and open spaces. 

Measure L ensures a safer, healthier and more vibrant Santa Cruz for generations to come while supporting the city’s ability to address urgent community needs, including homelessness.

Measure L aligns with a well-thought-out plan that has already delivered tangible results, resulting in a 29% decrease in the unhoused population within the city over the past year. It supports initiatives that connect people experiencing homelessness with vital services and support, offering a compassionate and effective approach to a complex issue.

Moreover, Measure L is our collective commitment to environmental stewardship. It earmarks funds to keep pollution out of our local rivers, creeks and streams, safeguarding the natural beauty that defines Santa Cruz, including our beautiful parks and beaches. The measure also supports affordable housing, and ensures that our firefighters are equipped to not only fight wildfires, but help our community prevent them. Measure L contributes to a sustainable and resilient future, where both the environment and our residents are protected.

Measure K will appear on everyone’s ballot throughout the county, while Measure L also appears on ballots within the city of Santa Cruz. Voting yes on them is not just a vote; it is a commitment to a community that prioritizes compassion, environmental responsibility and the well-being of every individual who calls this community home. Tourists and shoppers visiting our community will pay their fair share of Measures K and L, and every penny raised stays here – nothing can be taken by the state.

The city and county have worked hand in hand to create a safer, more inclusive and resilient community. This cooperative spirit underscores the interconnectedness of our shared challenges and the collective solutions embedded in Measures K and L. As we cast our votes, let us acknowledge the power of collaboration in shaping a better future for all residents of Santa Cruz County and the City of Santa Cruz.

Voting yes on Measures K and L will chart a course toward a brighter tomorrow for Santa Cruz County. Click here for more information.  

Justin Cummings is the chair of the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors. Fred Keely is the mayor of Santa Cruz.