A proposed federal overhaul of voter registration rules could force all Santa Cruz County residents looking to register to vote or update their registration, to do so in person, with proof of citizenship. Local officials warn the measures risk disenfranchising voters and exposing election workers to criminal liability.
Government
Posted inPolitics & Policy
Fact check: Cutting through the fog of competing affordable housing petitions in the city of Santa Cruz
In a city grappling with housing affordability, two rival ballot measures have emerged in Santa Cruz: one backed by the mayor, another by real estate interests. What are the differences between the competing petitions claiming to raise money for affordable housing?
Posted inPolitics & Policy
Supervisors approve cannabis lounges in tense meeting amid pleas to deny plans
The Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors gave final approval to cannabis consumption lounges in unincorporated areas like Aptos and Felton after a tense 3-2 vote. While supporters see economic and educational benefits, opponents cite public safety concerns and pushed for stricter oversight.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
No test, few arrests: Law enforcement officials diverge over county’s cannabis lounge plans
As the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors considers allowing cannabis consumption lounges, impaired driving and public safety have become central concerns for some community members. Police officers throughout the county have different opinions on just how big an issue high driving really is.
Posted inHousing & Development
Santa Cruz will regain some local control in deciding fate of unique Westside housing development
A major Westside Santa Cruz development is moving forward — but without a clear plan. For the first time in years, city officials have the power to shape or reject the project, reigniting debates over housing, local control and UC Santa Cruz’s impact on neighborhoods.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
‘A slap in the face’: As local realtors launch a dueling housing measure, Santa Cruz mayor accuses group of dirty play
A political firestorm is brewing in Santa Cruz as realtors launch a rival housing initiative to one put forward earlier this year by Mayor Fred Keeley and housing groups. Keeley and his allies say they were blindsided by the move.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
‘It’s a terrible idea’: County plan to allow cannabis lounges draws mixed reviews in the cities
While cannabis lounges received support from Santa Cruz County supervisors on Tuesday, the issue has divided mayors and councilmembers in the county’s four cities.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
Cannabis lounges near reality in Santa Cruz County after supervisors’ narrow approval
Santa Cruz County is set to allow cannabis lounges in unincorporated areas, offering a legal space for on-site consumption. While supporters see economic and social benefits, critics cite safety concerns. A final vote is scheduled for March 25.
Posted inPolitics & Policy
In the Public Interest: Legalized cannabis lounges to finally get a county vote on Tuesday
Inside Santa Cruz County politics & policy with Lookout correspondent Christopher Neely.
Posted inOpinion from Community Voices
Letter to the editor: We are youth leaders worried about local cannabis policy
In a letter to the editor, members of the Santa Cruz County Friday Night Live Partnership Youth Council urge readers concerned about cannabis lounges to contact their supervisor or attend Tuesday’s supervisors meeting.