The Santa Cruz City Council voted unanimously to explore the potential of converting the existing downtown library lot into a mixed-use development with a public plaza for the downtown farmers market.
Latest News
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 inLatest News
Federal funding freeze hits program that helps Santa Cruz County residents become citizens
President Donald Trump’s federal funding freeze is affecting grants to a longstanding citizenship program in Santa Cruz County, threatening services that have helped hundreds of immigrants navigate the naturalization process.
Posted inLatest News
In Santa Cruz County, day laborers find fewer jobs and growing fears
Day laborers in Santa Cruz County say they have been struggling to find work lately thanks to President Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown and the rising costs of materials squeezing the construction industry.
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 inLatest News
More than 4,100 without power in Santa Cruz County as storms pick up
The first, and stronger, of two storm systems forecast for the week took out power for more than 4,000 Santa Cruz County residents and closed a few roads on Wednesday.
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 inWatsonville / Pajaro
Watsonville City Council denies second appeal against ‘tiny village’ homeless shelter project
The Watsonville City Council on Tuesday denied a second appeal filed by resident Catalina Torres asking councilmembers to rescind zoning approval of the 34-unit “tiny village” project intended to provide shelter for the unhoused on the property of Westview Presbyterian Church.