Santa Cruz · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Santa Cruz public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Mobile recycling service at 200 Harvey West Boulevard
A new mobile recycling service (Recycle Depot) got permits to operate in the industrial zone. Before opening, the operator must submit a security plan addressing camping, after-hours drop-off, garbage, and loitering.
Water Quality
Heads up, Santa Cruz! That chemical from the Erin Brockovich movie, hexavalent chromium, has been detected in your drinking water. Officials are monitoring the situation and will provide updates on potential impacts to your tap water.
Climate Action Plan 2026-2029 workplan
The city admitted it's not on track to meet its emissions targets, like most California jurisdictions, but adopted a new three-year workplan prioritizing actions the Spanish-speaking community helped identify.
Water Supply for University Expansion
UC Santa Cruz wants to expand, but the city needs to figure out where the extra water will come from. This could mean tough choices about our local water supply.