Lookout PM: Atmospheric river approaching, Live Oak project appealed, new school sports fields, and a local biz roundup

Welcome to Wednesday night’s Lookout PM.

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Atmospheric river approaches Santa Cruz County, wider Bay Area

An atmospheric river is set to bring heavy rain, strong winds and possible thunderstorms to Santa Cruz County and the wider Bay Area from Wednesday night through Friday. Forecasters warn of minor flooding and coastal hazards with waves up to 20 feet, and urge caution for swimmers and travelers.

Live Oak neighbors appeal approval of 57-unit Capitola Road project, challenge use of state’s ‘builder’s remedy’ law

Residents near a proposed Capitola Road apartment complex led by local developer Workbench are appealing the Santa Cruz County planning commission’s approval of the project, arguing the builder can’t take advantage of state laws to override local control.

Credit: Kevin Painchaud / Lookout Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz County schools hope new sports facilities will draw more students

Schools across Santa Cruz County are unveiling major athletic facility upgrades — from New Brighton Middle School’s new turf field to Watsonville High’s renovated bleachers and planned new turf at Scotts Valley High — aimed at improving student safety and boosting sports participation.

This week in Santa Cruz County business: Local fintech company’s latest acquisition; startup pitches surf helmet on ‘Shark Tank’

In her weekly look at local business, Jessica M. Pasko reports on Paystand expanding payments to include some types of cryptocurrencies, previews a local startup’s appearance on “Shark Tank” and notes the debut of the Lookout List.

Community Bridges’ Meals on Wheels for Santa Cruz County program and Grey Bears launch new help for seniors

Amid a federal government shutdown that has disrupted food benefits, two local nonprofits are joining forces to help homebound seniors access both meals and grocery delivery. Continue reading…

Credit: Mike Peel (www.mikepeel.net) via Wikimedia Commons

An oil company running into rough waters off the California coast is looking to Trump for help

A vote by Santa Barbara County supervisors to deny Sable Offshore permits to restart production builds on a series of lawsuits and an accusation of insider trading, but the CEO wants President Donald Trump to help it overcome its setbacks. Continue reading…

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