Santa Cruz · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Santa Cruz public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
CDBG reallocation to Market Street Senior Center
Meals on Wheels reported it has a waiting list of 117 seniors it couldn't serve since April 2025 due to funding shortfalls, and gets 10-12 new applications weekly — a signal for the city's safety-net funding review.
Museum of Natural History Lease Amendments
The City took on responsibility for major building maintenance at the museum and will reimburse half the museum's insurance premium, up to $20,000 a year, after closed session direction.
Reciprocal use agreement with Santa Cruz City Schools
The city and school district are working out a deal for community access to school playgrounds and fields. Commissioners want unscheduled neighborhood use for kids and cost-recovery co-programming; the agreement returns to the commission before execution.
Shingu Student Exchange Delegation
The committee was scheduled to approve sending a youth delegation to Shingu, Japan, Santa Cruz's sister city, as part of the annual student exchange. It's a cultural exchange opportunity for local students.
Juneteenth 35th Anniversary Second Line Performance sponsorship
The commission was asked to recommend $3,725 in city funding for a Second Line Performance marking the 35th anniversary of Juneteenth. The recommendation would move forward for final funding consideration.
Salsa by the Sea Permitting
Roughly a dozen dancers urged the Council to restore summer Salsa by the Sea dates on the Wharf, calling it a tourism draw and 24-year community tradition. The mayor said three councilmembers are negotiating with Parks and a public resolution is likely soon.
FY27 City Arts Budget and 18-Month Workplan
The City Arts Division's draft 18-month workplan and FY27 budget shape which public art, grants, and arts programs Santa Cruz funds next year. The Commission was scheduled to give feedback and confirm direction before these go forward.