Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Santa Cruz County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
3 issues in zoning with medium priority
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.
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.