Santa Cruz County · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Santa Cruz County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
2027 Population Growth Goal
The Board set the 2027 growth rate at 0.6 percent under the voter-approved Measure J growth management system, keeping affordable housing exempt from permit limits.
AI data centers in unincorporated county
Supervisor Cummings wanted a March 2028 ballot measure requiring voter approval before AI data centers could be built here, citing water, power, and noise impacts elsewhere. A majority said there's no known proposal, the technology is changing fast, and they want to study it first.
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.
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.
County code and zoning map overhaul (Sustainability Update)
A sweeping package of zoning and building code cleanups — plus rezoning seven parcels — was approved in concept with several provisions reinstated at the Board's direction. Final adoption is June 30.