Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Santa Cruz County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
3 issues in business jobs with high priority
Streamline Santa Cruz County permitting
Permit review times are improving — median review down from 80 to 66 days — but only 80% of reviews land on time and customer dissatisfaction centers on regulatory complexity. Reporting now shifts to twice a year, with new data breakdowns demanded by Supervisor Koenig.
Economic development and enhanced infrastructure financing districts
The county will give up 25% of its future property tax growth in a 236-acre Scotts Valley district (up to $50 million over 30 years) to fund town center infrastructure, fire facilities, water/sewer upgrades and affordable housing. County analysis projects an $18.4 million net benefit.
Responsible Construction and Wage-Theft Ordinance
Union workers packed the chamber saying wage theft — nearly $2.2 million in stolen wages on local public works, by one labor compliance agent's account — is forcing them to commute over the hill for a living wage. The Board voted 4-1 to have staff draft a ordinance requiring contractors on county-permitted projects to disclose wage judgments over $10,000, with a return by October.