Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors Meeting

The Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors held a final budget hearing on June 24, 2026, focusing extensively on budget allocations and contract approvals for the fiscal year 2026-2027. Key procurement-related discussions included the approval of the Public Defender's Office budget, which involved maintaining the existing contract with the Paige and Dudley law firm while closing a funding gap through internal departmental reallocations. The board debated potential reductions to this contract but ultimately approved the budget with the contract intact. The Parks, Open Space, and Cultural Services budget was also reviewed, with significant public input opposing cuts to arts funding. The board directed staff to find funding solutions to maintain arts council and museum funding, including exploring discretionary funds and other revenue options, with a final budget to be returned on June 30. Additionally, the board considered amendments to the unified fee schedule and received a report on the county's indigent care program (Metacru) compared to the state CMSP program, deciding to retain local control due to cost and service considerations. Motions were passed to adopt the proposed budgets and fee schedules, with ongoing discussions planned for future budget adjustments and contract evaluations.