Santa Cruz · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Santa Cruz public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Objective Design Standards and Heritage Tree Regulations
The Council launched a Housing Ad Hoc Committee to shape design guidelines, decided against expanding the downtown density bonus beyond downtown, and asked for draft heritage tree rules for housing projects by Fall 2026.
Housing Rules Updated for State Law; Lot Consolidation Fee Deferred
Council reviewed SB 79, AB 130 and SB 131, which streamline infill housing approvals and limit CEQA review, plus six new e-bike-related bills.
FY 2026 Year-End Budget Adjustment and FY 2027 Budget Restatement
A $24.7 million adjustment to city spending across all funds, including a $2.7 million boost to the general fund, plus staffing changes across eight departments. It passed quietly on the consent agenda, though one speaker flagged the size of the revenue decrease.
Residential Permit Parking Cost Increase and Vision Zero Update
The $30/year permit program runs at a deficit (66–77% cost recovery), and commissioners discussed cutting permits per address from five to four, tiered pricing that charges more for each additional car, and a streamlined process triggered by building permits rather than entitlements. Several commissioners said the city shouldn't subsidize parking and that price is the main lever it has left under state law.
Transportation Impact Fee Study Delayed
The current traffic impact fee sends 80% of revenue to car-oriented projects and charges over $5,000 per PM trip, which commissioners said can scuttle small projects and doesn't reflect how new residents actually get around. Staff applied for a Caltrans grant to rebuild the fee around a multimodal project list, and commissioners want more money flowing to transit, bikes, and especially sidewalks.
Use of Measure Z sugar-sweetened beverage tax revenue
The city has collected $3.5 million from the sugar-sweetened beverage tax, but a court appeal means that money likely can't be spent for a year to 18 months. The committee is building a work plan and funding strategy, which will eventually need council approval.
Citywide Permit Parking Restrictions for Developments
State law lets new apartments near transit skip parking, and neighbors fear spillover. Council authorized a consultant RFP and told staff to come back in the fall with permit-parking code updates — including possibly barring new no-parking multifamily buildings from residential permit districts.