Sheriff Chris Clark Government Public Safety 

Meet Santa Cruz County Sheriff Chris Clark

By Jennifer Mount In December, Undersheriff Chris Clark succeeded Jim Hart as Santa Cruz County Sheriff. Clark is an 18-year veteran of the Sheriff’s Office and was appointed unanimously by the county’s Board of Supervisors in August 2024 after Hart retired with four years remaining in his elected term.  Clark is a graduate of California State University, Sacramento where, inspired… Read More
cannabis retailer Business Government Local News 

Cannabis Retailers Seek Permitting for On Site Consumption

Supervisor Monica Martinez has posted an alert about an item on the Tuesday March 11 Board of Supervisors meeting agenda. The Board will consider amendments that would allow two cannabis retailers along Highway 9 — one in Felton and one in Boulder Creek — to apply for permits for on-site consumption, similar to a bar. “The County has been working… Read More
Monica Martinez Supervisor 5th District Santa Cruz County Commentary Government Local News Valley People 

Monica Martinez Begins Her Term as 5th District Supervisor | Commentary

By Monica Martinez As we begin this new year, I’m honored to step into the role of Fifth District Supervisor, representing the vibrant and resilient communities of San Lorenzo Valley, Scotts Valley, and beyond. From the redwoods to the riverbanks, the unique character of our district inspires me daily. Over the past month, I’ve reflected on the challenges and opportunities… Read More
Supervisor Monica Martinez Affirms LGBTQ Protections Government 

Monica Martinez Leads Commitment to LGBT Community

Led by Fifth District Supervisor Monica Martinez, the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously Tuesday to reaffirm the County’s commitment to protect women and the LGBTQ+ community amid harmful federal policies and proposals, and to direct the County Administrative Officer (CAO) to safeguard services and ensure timely responses. “Given the current political climate, it is important that we… Read More
Supervisor Bruce McPherson Commentary Government Local News 

Bruce McPherson Reflects on Three Terms as 5th District Supervisor

Moving into the final month of a 12-year tenure as your Fifth District Supervisor, I can’t help but reflect on the many good things our community has accomplished – as well as the many hardships we have endured – all by working together. This District, and really the whole of Santa Cruz County, looks much different than it did when… Read More
Boulder Creek Santa Cruz CZU fire photo by Mary Andersen Fire Recovery Government 

4Leaf Recovery Permit Center Services Will Transition to Planning Department

The County’s contract with 4Leaf is set to expire at the end of the year. The project management firm has been providing building permit assistance to residents who are rebuilding after experiencing loss or damage to their homes after the CZU fire. The Planning department will resume all Recovery Permit Center services by January 1, 2025. 3rd District Supervisor Justin… Read More
Alina Layng San Lorenzo Valley Water District Government Local News 

SLV Water District Appoints Alina Layng, Filling Vacancy

During their August 1, 2024 board meeting, the San Lorenzo Valley Water District (SLVWD) appointed Boulder Creek resident Alina Layng to fill a board vacancy. Layng will serve the remainder of the term left vacant by director Jayme Ackemann who resigned in June prior to moving to the Central Valley. Layng was appointed following public notice of the open position.… Read More
backyard burn pile Government Local News 

Backyard Burn Season Ends April 30

Tuesday, April 30, 2024 is the last day that residential burning is permitted in Santa Cruz County. Beginning Wednesday May 1, 2024, all burning in the County (except campfires) will require an approved General Burn Permit which requires a site inspection and a physical permit issued through the BurnPermit.fire.ca.gov website. The guideline is in place to help reduce the risk… Read More