Dear [firstname],
It’s hard to believe we’re already heading into what I think is the very best time of year on the Central Coast. August, September, and October are like our little local secret—school is back in session, the summer crowds thin out, and the beauty of our coastline really shines. The beaches are peaceful, the wildlife is active, and the weather is simply perfect. Whether you’re catching a sunset by the shore, dining at your favorite local spot, strolling through the farmers market, or just enjoying time with friends—I hope you're finding a chance to slow down and soak it all in. We also have some great local festivals coming up—wonderful ways to support our artists, winemakers, and small businesses while celebrating all the things that make our community so special. There’s a lot happening in the weeks ahead, and I’m excited to share some important updates in this month’s newsletter. As always, my door is open—please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Warmly,
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Kimberly De Serpa
Second District Supervisor
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Winnie the Pug is a rescue from the LA Fire evacuations that our family welcomed to our home earlier this year. We love her so much!
Do you have space in your heart and home for loving animals like her? This month I want to showcase one sweet dog and a bunch of super sweet kittens all available at the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter. |
Meet Chloe – Your New Sunshine
Imagine walking through your front door to be greeted with full‑body wiggles, a happy tail, and a big, goofy stuffed toy in her mouth. That’s Chloe.
At about 6 years old and 50 pounds, this pretty white-and-brindle pittie is equal parts zest-for-life and snuggle-bug. She’s spent most of her life as her dad’s loyal sidekick until illness meant he could no longer care for her. Through it all, Chloe has shown resilience, warmth, and an eagerness to connect with people.
A devoted volunteer takes her on “sleepovers” filled with hikes, walks, and quiet home time. She’s a pro on the trail—whether walking solo or with big groups of dogs—and loves having a cozy spot and a couple of soft toys to call her own. She’s more relaxed around male dogs, enjoys polite play with others, but is just as happy soaking up all the attention as the only dog in the house.
Chloe’s joy is contagious—she’ll make you laugh, keep you active, and then snore softly beside you during well-earned naps. If your home (and heart) has room for one endlessly loving, toy-toting bundle of sunshine, Chloe is ready to meet you.
Chloe's adoption fees are sponsored by the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter Foundation's "Leave No One Behind Fund."
Banff, Calgary, Vancouver, Winnipeg, Halifax, Niagra Falls, Perth & Toronto!
These 4-month-old kittens all came from a single property where cats were breeding uncontrolled. They're now enjoying their safe, indoor life and would like to continue that in their next home. A home with a resident kitty or one of their friends may be a fit in their next spot.
Because these kittens are all black, their adoption fees are reduced by $20 thanks to the Bogey Fund--a fund that draws adopter's eyes towards often overlooked black cats in Shelters.
You can meet Chloe and the kittens at the Santa Cruz Animal Shelter (1001 Rodriguez Street), open 11 AM–6 PM daily. Chloe is currently being fostered, so please give the shelter a call to arrange a meetup! (831) 454-7200 |
Passing the Torch: Reflections on County Leadership
Santa Cruz County is going through a period of major leadership transition, with several long-serving public servants stepping away and new voices preparing to lead us forward.
In June, we said farewell to Mónica Morales, our Health Services Director. A Watsonville native, Mónica helped expand behavioral health care, championed culturally responsive services, and played a key role in stabilizing access to our local hospital system. We’re grateful for her steady leadership during some of our most challenging times.
Edith Driscoll, District 2’s own, retired earlier this year after more than two decades of service to the County. As Auditor-Controller and later as the county’s first combined Auditor-Controller/Treasurer-Tax Collector, Edith led with integrity, earning the trust of colleagues and constituents alike. Her steady hand and deep institutional knowledge will be deeply missed.
Michael Beaton, Director of General Services, is also moving on after many years of behind-the-scenes work keeping our county’s infrastructure and operations running. Michael is known not only for his calm, solutions-focused approach, but also for proudly representing Santa Cruz County in Scottish Highland Games around the world—a testament to the heart and humor he brought to public service.
And looking ahead, Carlos Palacios, our County Executive Officer since 2017, will retire at the end of the year. Carlos has guided us through wildfires, floods, the pandemic, and many pivotal policy efforts with clarity, compassion, and a deep commitment to equity. We’ll have more to share about his impact and legacy closer to his departure in December.
Amid these transitions, we’re also welcoming new leadership. Starting September 1, Connie Moreno-Peraza will take the helm as our new Health Services Director. A licensed clinical social worker and seasoned leader in behavioral health and public health systems, Connie brings a wealth of experience from across California. Her focus on equity and integrated care makes her a natural fit for the work ahead.
Change is never easy—but it brings opportunity. I remain committed to making sure District 2’s values, voices, and needs are well represented as we move into this next chapter together. |
The Santa Cruz location of Planned Parenthood permanently shut down in July 2025 alongside four others in the region—San Mateo, Gilroy, Madera, and South San Francisco—due to federal funding cuts. Although a federal judge later granted a temporary injunction restoring Medicaid reimbursement, that ruling did not reopen the Santa Cruz clinic. Additionally, the Planned Parenthood clinic in Watsonville will cease offering primary care for patients on October 1, although its reproductive health services and cancer screenings will remain in place.
If you or someone you love is impacted by this loss of primary care provider, there are still several providers in Santa Cruz County where you can access care, including those accepting Medi‑Cal, sliding fee, or no-cost care. See the list below: |
I’ve spent nearly three decades working in healthcare—as a medical social worker, department leader, and now as a Board Member for the Central California Alliance for Health, our region’s managed care health plan. I see firsthand the challenges we face when it comes to accessing care—especially the growing shortage of doctors across our community. That’s why I’m so encouraged by the efforts underway at UC Santa Cruz to establish a new medical school right here on the Central Coast. As you can imagine, launching a program of this scale takes time, investment, and strong partnerships. Planning is in progress, and if all goes as expected, the first small cohort of six students—all with ties to our region—will begin their studies in the fall of 2027. This will be a collaboration with UC Davis, where students will complete their first two years of medical education before returning to Santa Cruz to finish their clinical rotations in our local hospitals and clinics. The program, known as UC Programs in Medical Education - Central Coast (PRIME Central Coast), is designed to “grow our own” medical professionals—people who understand our community because they’re from here. PRIME adds a specialized curriculum to the traditional medical school track, emphasizing the needs of underserved communities and the barriers to accessing care in regions like ours. I’m hopeful that this thoughtful, community-based approach will help build a stronger local healthcare workforce—and ultimately bring better care closer to home for all of us. |
Eureka Canyon Road Storm Repairs After years of setbacks, repairs on Eureka Canyon Road are finally moving forward. A local contractor has been awarded a $2.2 million project to stabilize the hillside with new retaining walls, repave damaged sections, and address erosion. Nearly all of it is funded through federal and state disaster recovery programs, with the rest covered by SB1. Work is underway.
Soquel Drive Buffered Bike Lane Resurfacing is done, and final striping should happen by mid-August. Once that’s complete, we’ll be able to close the book on this long-awaited project. I’ll share the schedule as soon as I get it from Public Works. In the meantime, the project webpage has the latest updates and past Road Impact Notifications. We’re also planning a ribbon-cutting—stay tuned.
West Seacliff Pavement Management On August 7 and 8, crews will be adjusting manholes to match the new pavement. Striping will follow over the next two weeks. Expect weekday single-lane closures between 8:30 AM and 4:30 PM. Details are in the latest Road Impact Notification and posted online.
State Park Drive Water Main Repair Soquel Creek Water District is replacing a failing pipeline on State Park Drive. Most of the work is happening at night—9 PM to 6 AM—to keep traffic moving during the day. Some daytime work will follow to restore sidewalks and retaining walls.
Thank you for your patience as we power through this busy season of repairs. |
Like many of you, I have real questions about the $4.3 billion price tag for the Rail/Trail. That’s a staggering investment—especially when our roads, public transit, housing, and other vital services are already under pressure. I’ve been pressing for clear, transparent information about all the options on the table, as well as the long-term fiscal impacts. These are points I’ve raised directly with Reginal Transportation Commission (RTC) leadership. I also stepped up to serve on the task force addressing encroachments along the rail corridor. My priority is making sure the residents impacted by this process are treated with fairness, dignity, and respect. In addition, I’ve been representing the RTC on the Coastal Coordinating Council—filling in for former Commissioner Mike Rotkin—and will be applying for a formal appointment soon. At our most recent RTC meeting, the state announced a historic grant of $128.7 million for our county—the largest ever awarded to our RTC. This funding will extend Highway 1 improvements down to Freedom Boulevard, add a new bike and pedestrian bridge similar to the iconic “whale bridge,” and deliver key safety upgrades along Soquel Drive, including sidewalks, bike lanes, and traffic signals. The California Transportation Commission has recognized the Santa Cruz RTC as a leader in transportation innovation statewide. That’s something worth celebrating. Rail/Trail Planning: ZEPRT The Draft Concept for the Zero Emission Passenger Rail & Trail (ZEPRT) is now available, with a projected cost of $4.28 billion. Public input is open through August 15. The final report is due in December.
Learn more or submit feedback at Santa Cruz County RTC ZEPRT |
Two recently released reports offer a revealing snapshot of Santa Cruz County’s strengths, challenges, and where we must focus our efforts to create a more equitable and resilient future.
The 2025 State of the Workforce Report confirms what many in our County feel every day: the pressure of rising housing costs, a high concentration of low-wage jobs, and limited access to upward mobility. More than half of local jobs fall into the lowest pay tier, and many working families are struggling to remain in the communities they’ve long called home. And yet, there are signs of progress—especially in the growth of healthcare careers and gains in educational attainment. The report calls for deeper investment in workforce training, small business support, and expanded opportunities that reach every corner of the County.
At the same time, the Economic Contributions of Santa Cruz County Agriculture Report reminds us of the vital role agriculture plays in both our economy and environment. In 2023, ag generated over $1.5 billion in economic output and supported nearly 12,000 jobs, from fieldwork to value-added food processing. Berries and nursery crops continue to dominate production, but the value of our working lands extends well beyond the harvest—they provide essential ecosystem services like flood protection and wildfire buffering, valued at up to $583 million annually.
Together, these reports reflect more than just data—they offer a snapshot of who we are, where we’re headed, and how deeply interconnected our workforce, economy, and natural environment really are. If we want a thriving future, we need to support both the people doing the work and the land that makes it possible.
Read the 2025 State of the Workforce Report here
Read the Economic Contributions of Santa Cruz County Agriculture Report here
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New Online Tool to Streamline Residential Permitting in Santa Cruz County
On Monday, July 14, Santa Cruz County launched a new pilot program to simplify the residential permitting process with the Camino Online Permit Guide. This interactive tool will now be required for all residential development applications—except for EZ or over-the-counter permits—before the County will accept an application.
What is Camino?
Camino is an easy-to-use, online guide that walks applicants through the permitting process by asking a few quick questions about project location and scope. It then generates a personalized checklist of all required forms, documents, and submittal items—eliminating confusion and helping applicants submit complete, accurate applications the first time.
Key benefits include:
• A centralized resource to understand permit requirements
• Customized guidance based on your specific project
• The ability to explore different project options online
• Clear next steps for a successful submittal
• Consistency and alignment with County requirements
Whether you're building a new home, planning an ADU, or remodeling, Camino helps you start with confidence. This tool improves transparency, reduces delays, and supports a smoother review process.
Learn more and access the guide here
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Come chat with us!
Saturday August 23rd, 10 am to noon Aptos Public Library, 7695 Soquel Drive, Aptos Betty Leonard Community Room
More office hours in Capitola, La Selva, Corralitos and South County coming soon!
For more information: 831-454-2200 or second.district@santacruzcountyca.gov
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Gratitude for a Joyful Fourth of July
A huge thank you to John and Karen Hibble, the Aptos Chamber of Commerce, and all the agencies, organizations, and volunteers who brought the magic once again to Aptos with the World’s Shortest Parade and Party in the Park. The creativity, community spirit, and pure fun were on full display – and it wouldn’t have happened without your hard work and heart.
I also had the pleasure of attending the Spirit of Watsonville Fourth of July Parade, beautifully organized by the City of Watsonville’s Parks & Community Services Department, with support from generous sponsors and an incredible group of participants.
From Aptos to Watsonville, it was a joyful reminder of how strong and vibrant our community truly is. Thank you to everyone who helped make this Independence Day so special.
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La Selva Beach Library Celebrated 75 Years! The La Selva Beach Library marked its 75th anniversary with a joyful, family-friendly celebration. The festivities kicked off at 10:30 AM on August 2nd with a wonderful performance by Estrellas De Esperanza, followed by a kids’ Story Hour and delicious birthday cupcakes for all to enjoy. As part of the Books and Brews Summer Fair, my office presented an official proclamation honoring the Library’s 75 years of service to the community. Congratulations to a wonderful community asset – the beautiful and welcoming La Selva Beach Library. |
A First for Our Region: Children’s Crisis Center Nears Opening I recently had the chance to tour the soon-to-open Santa Cruz County Children’s Crisis Center at 5300 Soquel Avenue—a game-changing facility that will provide critical mental health support to local children and families. Once open, the center will offer: - A Children’s Crisis Stabilization Program for short-term, immediate care
- A 16-bed Residential Program for youth needing a safe and supportive environment for recovery
This is the first facility of its kind in our region—meaning children in crisis will no longer need to leave the county to receive the care they need. A heartfelt thank you to the County’s Health Services Agency, staff, and all the partners working to make this essential project a reality. We’re getting close to opening day, and I look forward to seeing this center begin serving our community. Take a mini tour with Dr. Marni Sandoval below: |
Environmental Commission Featured Expert Voices in Battery Storage Workshop Series
The Santa Cruz County Commission on the Environment continued its educational outreach on Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) with the second in a series of public workshops, held on July 30. The session featured Scott Murtishaw, Executive Director of the California Energy Storage Alliance, who discussed the role of current and emerging battery technologies, followed by Mike Nichols, Energy Storage Specialist and Fire Consultant with Hiller Companies, who presented on BESS safety, fire prevention, and emergency response planning.
The Commission named these experts as part of its ongoing effort to bring technical insight and community awareness to the growing use of battery storage systems in California’s clean energy transition. While BESS facilities offer benefits like improved grid reliability and reduced fossil fuel reliance, concerns have also been raised around safety and environmental impacts.
Commission Chair Kris Damhorst emphasized the importance of accessible, expert-led education on this complex topic, noting the Commission's commitment to helping the public better understand the issues.
The final workshop in the series is scheduled for August 20, 2025, and will feature Matt Paiss, a nationally recognized authority on BESS safety standards and risk mitigation.
All workshops are open to the public. Access recordings of prior workshops on the Commission's Website.
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A heartfelt thank you to all who serve on County boards and commissions. Your insight helps shape policies on housing, health, safety, the environment, and more. These roles may not always be visible — but they’re essential.
Interested in serving? We have open seats on several commissions. Learn more here:
Commission Info Apply here |
Congratulations to the 2025 Pajaro Valley Chamber Dinner Honorees!
Lifetime Achievement Bob and Linda Erbe
Woman of the Year Laura Owen
Man of the Year Jess Brown
Business of the Year D'La Colmena Market & Catering
Event of the Year Salvation Army Backpack Giveaway
Organization of the Year Sons and Daughters of Italy |
Fifth District Supervisor Monica Martinez and I have been attending the New Supervisors Institute in Sacramento over the course of the last six months and recently earned our diplomas. The California State Association of Counties (CSAC) provides training for recently elected county supervisors. We covered a wide range of topics: how counties are funded, how land use decisions are made, working with the media, and what it really takes to lead in a way that serves the whole community. It was practical, fast-paced, and full of insight from people who’ve done this work for years. I walked away with a better grasp of the job—and a few new colleagues in other counties I can call on for ideas and support. |
Celebrate Summer at the 10th Annual Parks & Rex Event! Mark your calendars for Saturday, August 16, from 11 AM to 4 PM at the Simpkins Family Swim Center for our 10th Annual Parks & Rex celebration! This fun-filled, family-friendly event features music, delicious food, and pool time for everyone—including your pup! All proceeds support Santa Cruz County Parks Youth Recreation Programs and the Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter, so your good time goes to a great cause. Don’t miss out—presale tickets and dog swim passes are available now at bit.ly/parksandrex. Plus, enter our raffle for a chance to win an incredible prize package! Raffle tickets are $25 and can be purchased at scparks.com. The winner will be drawn on August 16—you don’t need to be present to win! |
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