Guest Viewpoint | Strengthening Rural Resilience: The Vital Importance of Measure K

Within Santa Cruz County’s forests and mountainous neighborhoods, Measure K stands as a beacon of hope. For these residents—who have become far too familiar with the impacts of fires and our harsh winters—this proposition isn’t just about numbers and ballots, it’s about securing a lifeline that helps deliver safety and recovery. With its focus on bolstering emergency response capabilities and repairing crucial roadways, Measure K is a vital investment in the resilience and well-being of the Santa Cruz Mountains.

We don’t need to lecture the folks on the value of emergency preparedness. In times of crisis, every second counts. Measure K recognizes this urgency by enhancing emergency response in the mountains and throughout Santa Cruz County, helping assure that our firefighters, public safety personnel and other first responders are able to reach remote areas to provide critical assistance. Lives can be saved, injuries prevented and properties safeguarded—if we come together to support Measure K.

Improved road infrastructure—particularly continuing the progress we’ve made repairing roads from the seven federally declared disasters we’ve seen in Santa Cruz County since 2017—is not merely a convenience but a commitment to our community. Assuring people can safely access their homes, and getting those roads open as soon as possible when disaster strikes, is a cornerstone of our commitment to our residents.

Measure K invests in smoother, safer roads, supporting our first responders, local businesses and residents. It’s about forging stronger connections between neighbors, businesses and essential services, revitalizing our communities one mile at a time.

In times of crisis, such as natural disasters or medical emergencies, reliable roads are the arteries that ensure swift evacuation and timely access to aid. Measure K’s commitment to road repairs isn’t just about patching potholes; it’s about fortifying the lifelines that sustain rural communities through thick and thin. Whether it’s transporting goods to market or ensuring that school buses can navigate safely, well-maintained roads are the backbone of rural resilience.

Measure K does much more, of course. If approved, revenues from Measure K would be spent in accordance with priorities adopted by the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors, including affordable housing and retaining essential workers such nurses, teachers, mental health clinicians and others who support our community, continuing the progress we’ve made including establishing year-round, 24-hour support centers for persons experiencing homelessness; climate resiliency and parks upgrades, including disaster prevention and recovery services; and more.

Measure K isn’t just an expenditure—it’s an investment in the safety, prosperity and future viability of rural communities. It reaffirms their intrinsic value and acknowledges the unique challenges they face, demonstrating a commitment to equity and inclusivity, ensuring that no community is left behind as we move forward to improve our community.

As advocates for Measure K, let us stand united in our conviction that investing in rural communities is a necessity. Together, let us seize this opportunity to build stronger, more resilient communities where every individual—no matter how remote their corner of the countryside—can thrive and prosper. Vote yes on Measure K—for rural resilience, for community solidarity, and for a brighter tomorrow.

For more on Measure K, please visit safehealthysantacruz.com.

Bruce McPherson is the outgoing County Supervisor representing District 5, which includes Scotts Valley, the San Lorenzo Valley and parts of Santa Cruz. Scotts Valley resident Jim Hart has served as the Sheriff-Coroner of Santa Cruz County since 2014.