Santa Cruz County · issues

Civic issues

Topics getting the most attention in Santa Cruz County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.

2 issues (filtered)11 topics

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All topics Taxes Budget Public Safety Environment Roads Zoning Business Jobs Development Parks Rec Water Utilities Schools Housing

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HighZoning

Accessory Dwelling Unit ordinance update

The Board debated two housing tools: letting ADUs be sold as condos (AB 1033) and a San Diego-style bonus program rewarding deed-restricted affordable ADUs with extra market-rate units. A divided Board chose to wait — monitoring other communities and pending state legislation — rather than commit staff time now. Critics worried about investor-driven projects and $1.3 million price tags on 'starter' units.

2 mentionsLast discussed Aug 25, 2026

HighZoning

Battery energy storage facility at 90 Minto Road

Several speakers warned about Chinese-made lithium batteries planned for a Minto Road energy storage project, urging the county to stand firm on its battery ordinance and demanding thorough review.

5 mentionsLast discussed Jun 30, 2026