Santa Cruz · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Santa Cruz public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Seabright Plaza redevelopment at 1214 Soquel Avenue
A developer proposes demolishing Seabright Plaza for a six-story mixed-use building, displacing Ace Hardware, the Bagelry, Akira and other neighborhood businesses. About fifteen speakers opposed, citing traffic, parking, lost jobs and neighborhood character — but it's only a preliminary application, with a community meeting September 29.
Calypso Affordable Housing Bond Financing
The Council approved conduit financing of up to $42 million in tax-exempt bonds for the Calypso affordable rental housing project in District 4.
405-417 Pacific Avenue affordable apartment project
A 20-year resident says the 80-100 year old house and century-old warehouse at 407-415 Pacific — once Santa Cruz's first auto repair shop and original surf shacks — would be demolished, displacing low-income tenants who pay around $475/month. The trade-off: 102 new affordable units, but at rents he says start near $2,000.
900 High Street Housing Project (47 Units)
A decade-long church-partnered affordable housing project was upsized from 40 to 47 units with more co-living bedrooms. Neighbors opposed the taller rectangular building, traffic, parking, and potential spring and stormwater impacts; the council approved it 6-0 after swapping one concession.
Local preference for affordable housing
The city wants to strengthen its policy so Santa Cruz residents and workers get priority for affordable housing, adding anti-displacement categories and extending it beyond inclusionary units. Staff found over 90% of recent affordable lease-ups already met local preference. Council takes it up May 12.