Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors Meeting

The Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors held a budget hearing on June 11, 2026, covering multiple departments including Probation, Sheriff-Coroner, Parks, Measure Q, and Community Development and Infrastructure. Key procurement and budget discussions included the approval of the 2026-27 Probation Department budget at $35 million, featuring a 5% reduction and staffing cuts, with ongoing juvenile hall construction and new revenue opportunities from juvenile programs. The Sheriff-Coroner's budget was presented at $124.9 million with a $9 million increase, addressing staffing vacancies, aging facilities, and critical technology replacements. The Parks Department proposed a $20.7 million budget with a $2 million district sales tax contribution, discussing a pilot pay-to-park program expected to generate $340,000 annually, though met with public opposition. Measure Q funds were allocated for grants, county programs, and land stewardship, with administrative costs and grant evaluation processes reviewed. The Community Development and Infrastructure budget included planning and public works, noting a reduction in permit activity and staffing, ongoing affordable housing projects, and deferred storm damage repairs due to funding constraints. Motions to approve budgets passed with some dissent, and further discussions on funding sources, deferred maintenance, and capital projects were planned for future meetings.