Local News

Last November, the Scotts Valley Fire Protection District asked Scotts Valley voters to approve a bond to build a new southside fire station and provide a better defense against wildfires. The measure lost by just 12 votes, leaving the district to continue struggling with...

Supervisors to host cannabis listening sessions Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors is seeking feedback from county residents on any changes needed to local laws regulating cannabis, including retail sales, outdoor and indoor commercial production, on-site consumption and more. A series of public meetings are planned...

The Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors voted 4-1 on June 4 to approve the 2024-25 Proposed Budget, a comprehensive spending plan that addresses significant financial challenges while continuing to advance key strategic initiatives. Despite facing substantial fiscal constraints, including more than $100 million in...

Volunteers of the global nonprofit Dr. Shri. Nanasaheb Dharmadhikari Pratishthan completed a conservation drive at Castle Rock State Park, located along Skyline Boulevard, on June 22. Efforts included removing Douglas fir saplings that officials said could promote the spread of flames during a wildfire. “This whole...

San Lorenzo Valley Water District staff will begin flushing water mains in the San Lorenzo Valley in March, part of regular system maintenance. Annually flushing the system removes iron and manganese deposits that accumulate in the water distribution system, leading to cleaner pipes and ensuring...

A non-native invasive shothole borer beetle found along Zayante Creek south of Graham Hill Road in October has been identified as Euwallacea interjectus, a beetle originating from Southeast Asia. Prior U.S.-based identifications of Euwallacea interjectus have been restricted to states in the Southeastern part of...

Supervisor attends White House executive order event on AI Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors Chair Zach Friend participated in a White House executive order event Oct. 30 on artificial intelligence (AI), recognizing the County’s leadership in developing AI policies on behalf of the public. The...

A 45-year-old man died early Sunday morning when his vehicle careened off of Graham Hill Road near Felton and smashed onto a tree. California Highway Patrol Officer Israel Murillo said the man, who has not been named, was driving a 2009 Nissan Altima north on...

The Superior Court of Santa Cruz County will be hosting two informational meetings on the Civil Grand Jury. Attendees will have the opportunity to speak with current jurors about the opportunity and how their work impacts Santa Cruz County. Meetings will take place April 17 at...

With the November election just weeks away, residents are facing an onslaught of information regarding candidates and ballot measures. Previously, the Press Banner focused on the two county supervisor candidates for District 5, Christopher Bradford and Monica Martinez. This week we take a dive...