Measure S imposes unfair burden on younger homeowners
The proposed Measure S seeks to increase property taxes to fund the new fire station — I believe this is unfair because it taxes younger, more financially-stressed families in Scotts Valley.
As proposed, the property tax increase would largely affect newer homes with younger homeowners and shelter the property values of those who bought their homes decades ago.
While important for community safety, this bond measure raises valid concerns about generational equity. New homeowners, facing the burden of skyrocketing property values, are being asked to shoulder the costs while long-term residents with older, lower appraisals continue to pay less in taxes for our city. This creates a generational imbalance where newer homeowners, often already struggling to afford homes in Santa Cruz County, are disproportionately impacted.
A more equitable approach would be to reassess long-held properties to reflect their current market value, ensuring all homeowners contribute fairly who benefit from the community service the fire station provides. By rebalancing the tax burden, Scotts Valley can maintain its emergency services without unfairly penalizing its newer residents and allow the residents who already pay very little property tax, to pay their fair share. It does not make sense to have younger and newer home owners pay more for the same service that their older neighbors receive.
My wife and I both grew up in Santa Cruz and have long dreamed of finally owning a home in this county. However, our monthly home costs are nearly $10K/month when factoring in property taxes, and we are working around the clock to make ends meet. Meanwhile, the retirees in my community, while amazing neighbors, pay much less for the same municipal services. Why do we not tax these homes fairly in order to solve our budgetary woes?
Patrick Johnston
Scotts Valley
Elect Martinez for Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors
Those of us in the Fifth District have an exciting opportunity to elect a new leader to represent us on the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors.
Monica Martinez is clearly the candidate who has the skills and knowledge needed to be an effective advocate for our district. As a Felton resident, I believe we should be represented by someone who can identify and address our needs, ranging from disaster preparedness and response to reliable access to utilities, such as water, electricity and internet.
Monica is deeply engaged in our community, and she’s eager to hear what we’re concerned about. She’s been out there talking to the voters in this district for the last year or more to hear what we have to say. And, Monica shows up.
When the downtown Felton redwood deck was damaged just days before the Felton Remembers Memorial Day parade, Monica jumped into action to bring people together to make sure it was repaired in time. That’s a small example.
But when the next disaster strikes, whether it’s fire or flooding or an earthquake, I want a supervisor who knows how to get things done efficiently and effectively. While this is Monica’s first campaign for elected office, she’s demonstrated in her professional life, her civic engagement and her connection to our community that she is ready to work for the Fifth District.
I hope that your readers will take the time to learn more about Monica at martinezforsupervisor.com. I’m confident that they’ll come to the same conclusion.
Liza-Jane Capatos
Felton
Bradford is the voice SLV needs for proper representation
I am writing in support of Christopher Bradford for Fifth District County Supervisor.
Christopher is a dedicated community leader with the vision and commitment needed to address our district’s challenges. As a local small business owner and Treasurer of the Fire Safe Council, Christopher has proven his dedication to public safety and disaster preparedness, especially after the CZU Lightning Complex Fire.
His leadership in wildfire prevention and infrastructure improvement shows that he’s ready to lead us through future challenges. Christopher’s focus on wildfire prevention, drought resilience and balancing environmental protection with sustainable growth makes him the candidate we need. His commitment to transparency and community engagement sets him apart, as he actively listens to residents and works collaboratively to find solutions.
For too long, the residents of SLV have been overlooked. We deserve proper representation within the county. I believe Christopher Bradford is the best choice for Fifth District Supervisor. I urge my fellow residents to support him in the upcoming election.
Shandra Hunt
Boulder Creek
We welcome letters to the editor and commentaries on all topics of local interest. Email your submissions to [email protected]. Letters must include the writer’s name and hometown (for publication) and phone number (for verification). Submissions may be edited, and will be published as space permits. Letters are limited to about 300 words, commentaries to 500 words.
