Scotts Valley Times: April 2026

Council Approves Revised Zoning Plan at Capitola Mall

Future Success

TBy JON CHOWN

he Capitola City Council on March 16 approved major zoning and land-use changes for the Capitola Mall, adopting a slate of revisions designed to make the property easier to build housing on in order to advance the city’s state-mandated housing goals.

“I think this is one of the biggest decisions that I think maybe any City Council in Capitola might ever have made,” said Vice Mayor Gerry Jensen.

The action followed a public hearing on Feb. 23 when council members were ready to rezone the mall. ... continues on page 4

But a decision was then delayed after Merlone Geier Partners, which owns a majority of the property, submitted a late letter requesting 10 changes to the proposed rezoning.

After deliberation by the council, the plan was sent back to city staff, which met with the developer in the intervening weeks and returned with a modified plan that incorporated many of the developers suggestions.

The new zoning changes are meant to transform the mall property into a high-density, mixed-use area with more than 1,700 housing units, accompanying commercial space and hopefully a large hotel. At the center of the new plan is a tiered redevelopment system intended to encourage a mix of housing, retail and hospitality uses. It also intends to reduce the visual impact of taller buildings that could be approved, such as an 85-room hotel.

Tier 1 allows residential-only development. Tier 2 and Tier 3 allow increased building heights and more residential density in exchange for including specified amounts of commercial space and, in some cases, hotel development.

As revised, Tier 2 projects now must include between 25,000 and 35,000 square feet of new commercial space, down from the 30,000 SF threshold of the previous plan. It’s one of the requests the developer made. Other requests were also granted. Minimum ground-floor height requirements for required commercial space were reduced from 18 feet to 16 feet. Staff said the adjustment would still support a range of tenants while reducing construction costs.

Requested changes were also made to the “perimeter zone,” where lower height limits apply along surrounding streets. The depth of the perimeter zone was reduced from 125 feet to 75 feet along 41st Avenue and Capitola Road, allowing taller buildings to be located closer to those corridors. The deeper 125-foot buffer was retained along Clares Street.

Within the site, building heights can reach up to 75 feet in most areas, with certain commercial uses, such as hotels, permitted up to 85 feet under Tier 3.

The council also approved revisions to how residential density is calculated, allowing developers to include public rightsof-way, easements and publicly accessible open space in the overall site area. Staff said the change could encourage open space without reducing space for new housing.

The city mostly kept its previous standards requiring buildings designed to face the street with pedestrian-oriented entrances and varied façades, as well as limitations on surface parking between buildings and streets. And despite requests from the property owner, the council retained requirements for dedicated bicycle lanes on new internal streets, citing the need to accommodate more bicycles and pedestrians in the denser, mixed-use environment.

New phasing requirements were also adopted to ensure that commercial and hotel components are developed alongside housing. However, the City Council was cautious, recognizing that every demand might make the project less desirable to build.

“I worry that we won’t get a project if we make it so difficult,” said Council member Melinda Orbach.

The city coffers will take a hit during the development, according to city staff, who projected a temporary reduction in sales tax

revenue of about $400,000 annually when businesses are closed.

Capitola resident Kevin Mcguire voiced some concern, not just about the short-term, but the long-term effects. “It seems like we have really good sales revenue from the mall right now. So to lose 300,000-plus square feet of retail, and lose those jobs, to go down to 30,000-40,000 square feet, that doesn’t seem to add up,” he said.

James Gwilliam, representing MGP, assured the city that the project would be an asset and not a drain on the community.

“We are fully committed to making this a project that the city is proud of,” he said. “We want a hotel to happen. … We’re happy with the work that gone into this. Hopefully the feedback we’ve provided has been helpful. We want to continue to be a part of this process as it moves forward.”

The zoning changes will help Capitola meet the requirements of the city’s Housing Element for 2023-2031. Under California law, every city must update its Housing Element every eight years to assess housing needs, identify adequate sites for development and adopt programs to meet current and future demand.

Capitola must plan for 1,336 housing units, including 497 units for low-income households, 169 for moderate-income households and 455 above moderate-income, or market-rate, units. Cities don’t have to build the housing but are required to properly zone and accommodate the construction of it. If a city doesn’t have a Housing Element in place, or doesn’t follow it, developers can use a variety of new laws to bypass local control and construct projects without much regard for zoning or setback requirements. Parking requirements may be reduced, and noise concerns may not be considered.

Jensen noted that the plan for mall housing doesn’t include much that will be affordable. “What I hear constantly is the housing is too expensive, and I’m not convinced that a ‘build more to lower the prices’ or a ‘supply and demand’ analogy is the best plan of action for our community,” he said.

Council member Joe Clarke agreed and said he, too had a number of concerns and wondered if the council shouldn’t “pump the brakes a bit” on the whole idea.

However, with the alterations adopted by the City Council, the zoning changes were approved unanimously. The council determined the action is exempt from CEQA because it implements the Housing Element. n

COMMUNITY NEWS

Mountain Community Theater to Hold Auditions for Fall Comedy ‘Rumors’

Mountain Community Theater will hold auditions in late April for its fall production of “Rumors,” a farce by playwright Neil Simon.

Auditions are scheduled for 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Monday, April 27, at St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in Ben Lomond, and Tuesday, April 28, at Santa Cruz Actors’ Theatre.

“Eagle Scouts” from page 7

Beyond blazing the trail for future female Eagle Scouts, she had a message for all future scouts about making the most of the experience. “Have fun with it. And work on it, instead of just seeing it as steps in advancement or checking off boxes. It’s so much more than that. If I hadn’t joined scouting, I wouldn’t be the person I am today”.

Walt D’Ewart

Walt D’Ewart, a 17-year old junior at Scotts Valley High School, served as Senior Patrol Leader of Troop 614 and passed his Eagle Board of Review in August 2025. He joined the scouts to make new friends after his family moved to Scotts Valley in 2021 but soon realized there was much more to it than that. “It’s taken me places I would have never experienced otherwise”.

For his Eagle Project, Walt connected with Common Roots Farm in Santa Cruz, a nonprofit operation that hosts day programs where people with disabilities help to grow, harvest, and package produce and flowers. Having grown up alongside an older brother with a disability, Walt was especially drawn to support the farm’s mission of building connections through shared, meaningful work.

Walt chose to renovate the farm’s volunteer break area, a central gathering place where workers meet, eat lunch, and store their belongings. No stranger to tools, trucks and woodworking, building something was right in Walt’s wheelhouse.

The existing space had uneven ground and a few scattered tables. To improve conditions Walt designed a three-phase plan: installing a wheelchair-accessible patio, building an ADAcompliant picnic table, and constructing a volunteer station with storage and rain shelter.

Walt organized about twenty volunteers to clear and level the site and install all-weather pavers, followed by construction of the customized picnic table. The volunteer station was the most challenging phase, required planning, post setting, and finish carpentry.

Walt logged about 100 hours of his own work over eight months, completing the project in May 2025. His efforts were supported by more than 200 volunteer hours and over $3,000 in donations. “The best

The production is described as a fastpaced comedy known for its humor and chaotic plot. Organizers said actors of varying experience levels are encouraged to audition. Additional details, including requirements and audition forms, are available on the theater’s website. Questions can be directed to slvdaria24@gmail.com. n

communities are built on real connections”, noted Walt, as he reflected on the experience.

Like others in his troop, Walt has grown as a person on his path to Eagle Scout.

“Scouting made me take myself more seriously, and held me to something higher” he says. “I learned how to lead.”

Beyond the Merit Badges

All three scouts emphasized that becoming an Eagle Scout means much more than just satisfying the requirements and checking the boxes. The values and work ethic learned at this young age last a lifetime, with Eagle Scouts often holding leadership roles, forging strong relationships, and engaging with their community.

And once an Eagle Scout, you’re always an Eagle Scout. “You carry this through all other aspects of life”, says Troop 614 Scoutmaster Tim Johnson. “Other milestones along the way, those can be left behind as something you were. But you are always an Eagle Scout. For life.” n

PHOTO: Andrew Kim (left) and Walt D’Ewart look on as Summer Haber speaks at the celebration of them earning their Eagle Scout merit badges.

MusicalMe inc.

Every Child — and Parent — Benefits from Music Education

AMusic Together class with MusicalMe might look like simple play: parents swaying with infants, toddlers shaking instruments, adults and children dancing in a circle. But behind the music is a carefully designed program rooted in decades of research.

“Music lights up all areas of the brain, and this program helps children, from the very beginning, to build their musical brain,” said owner Lizz Hodgin Weihrauch. “Musical learning supports all learning.”

Since 1996, MusicalMe Inc. has been offering the renowned Music Together early childhood music enrichment program for children newborn through age 5. To be musical is to be a person who can move to the rhythm accurately and sing in tune. That’s basic music competence, said Lizz.

What that does for a child can be transforming, but the parents get just as much out of it.

“The parents are also the students,” said Lizz. “A musical life begins at home. We teach you why and how.”

That focus sets MusicalMe apart. Rather than centering on performance or early technical mastery, the program trains caregivers to build what Lizz calls a “rich musical learning environment” in everyday life. Families leave each class with illustrated songbooks, weekly activities, and practical tools — simple ways to weave music into routines like car rides, playtime, and transitions.

“We’re constantly teaching them, ‘Here’s how you can do it at home,’” she said. “Take this idea, take that idea. Model music-making throughout your child’s day.”

The approach is grounded in research on early childhood development, particularly the role music plays in brain growth.

“It seems like magic, but it’s based on brilliant research,” Lizz said. “Music-making lights up the entire brain.”

Just as important is what MusicalMe works to undo: the widespread belief that musical ability is something only a few people possess.

“We really work at dispelling the idea that only some people are musically able,” she said. “Our children don’t care if you’re a good musician, but they know how they feel when you’re singing and dancing with them.”

Learning Together, Not Apart

Another defining feature of MusicalMe is its mixed-age, family format. Infants, toddlers, and preschoolers participate in the same class, each with their caregiver by their side.

“We want that because it mirrors natural learning,” Lizz said.

In that environment, younger children learn by observing older ones, while older children develop confidence and leadership.

“It gives the older ones pride when they see younger ones learning from them,” she said.

“And it shows parents they can do this with their 2- and 4-year-olds together.”

In a culture that often separates children strictly by age, Lizz sees this as a crucial shift.

“That segregation is a disservice,” she said. “Older ones learn responsibility, younger ones are inspired. It’s especially important for kids who don’t have siblings.”

The shared experience extends to adults as well. Each child participates with a parent, grandparent or caregiver, creating a comfortable environment in which families learn together.

“The adults find community in it,” Lizz said. “People end up being friends.”

After class, families often head to the playground. For many, especially new parents, that connection can be vital.

“We’re so isolated at home with our kids.

songs, she went looking for that songbook Deanna had given her. She tried a song called “Wiggle” and followed the directions for parents.

“I sang the song as directed, including all the wiggling movement, and something lit up in his brain. I’m wiggling the craziest wiggles, and he’s responding,” said Lizz. “I thought, THIS is what I’ve been looking for!’”

Encouraged by her friend, Lizz traveled to Princeton, NJ, to train in the program and bring it to Santa Cruz County, launching her first classes with 35 students. Within a year, enrollment grew to 150.

“I had no idea I’d be doing this for 30 years,” she said. “Now we’ve served more than 60,000 students.”

Measuring Success Differently

We don’t have extended family around — we need each other,” she said.

That sense of belonging isn’t the primary goal, but it’s a natural outcome.

“That’s a beautiful byproduct,” she said.

Built on Research and Intention

Since launching in 1996, MusicalMe has grown to multiple locations across Santa Cruz and Santa Clara counties, serving more than 60,000 students. The program’s longevity, Lizz said, comes down to its depth and intentional design.

“There’s a lot of good stuff out there, but this is the best,” she said. “If you know of something better, I will switch.”

She points to the program’s ongoing research, teacher training, and curated music selection as key strengths.

“There’s nothing that has the depth of research, the integrity, the support for teachers, and the quality of the music,” she said. “There’s even a song advisory board.”

Songs are chosen carefully and reflect a wide range of cultures, exposing children to music beyond our nation’s borders.

A Personal Beginning

Though MusicalMe today is a structured, far-reaching program, its origins were deeply personal.

Lizz first encountered the Music Together curriculum through a childhood friend, Deanna DeCampos, who had discovered it years earlier. At the time, Lizz didn’t immediately connect with it. Her son had just been born with Down Syndrome, and life was complicated. Then, after trying some music therapy with him and growing tired of singing the same few silly

Over time, some MusicalMe students have gone on to musical careers, including Jesse McMilin, who was the musical director of Mountain Community Theater’s recent production of The Addams Family, and jazz vocalist June Cavlan, who earned a scholarship to the University of Miami and now tours with the Sunhouse Singers vocal trio, which will appear at the Jamboree Jazz festival in Spain in May.

But Lizz measures success differently.

“The goal is not award-winning musicians,” she said.

To her, basic musical competence — moving to rhythm and singing in tune — is as essential as any other early skill.

“Do you know anybody who is musical who wishes they weren’t?” she said.

MusicalMe’s next 12-week Spring Session begins the week of April 6, with classes offered across its multiple locations and limited scholarships available to help make the program accessible.

As with much of its growth over the past three decades, enrollment is driven largely by families sharing their experience with others. The business offers a referral incentive — $50 for each new family who signs up through an existing participant. n

For more information, go to musicalme.com.

Scotts Valley Chamber Annual Community Awards Winners

Adam Cosner Man of the Year

Adam Cosner is a steady and deeply committed presence in the community, known for his leadership, service, and compassion. A retired firefighter and medical responder, Adam has dedicated his life to protecting others and continues to serve with the same integrity and purpose in his volunteer work.

He is a founding member and current treasurer of Team G Childhood Cancer Foundation, an organization created following his daughter’s cancer diagnosis. Through his leadership, the foundation has raised critical funds for research while providing meaningful support, resources, and guidance to families facing childhood cancer.

Adam serves on the Scotts Valley Fire Board, offering thoughtful oversight and guidance, and teaches Fire Technology through the Santa Cruz County Office of Education, helping prepare the next generation for careers in the fire service. He previously taught sixth grade math at Scotts Valley Middle School and continues to mentor youth through coaching cross country and track.

annual tradition to life. He is a former president of the SV SLV Soccer Club and now serves as a member at large, supporting youth athletics through strong leadership, organization, and a focus on student athletes.

Beyond Scotts Valley, Adam has been a tireless advocate for firefighters and public servants. As a former union president for the Santa Clara County Fire Department, he worked with elected officials on issues affecting first responders and supported broader labor efforts advocating for fair pay and benefits. He is also collaborating with physicians and researchers on a grant studying cancer rates among firefighters.

Each year, Adam participates in the Firefighter Stair Climb in Seattle, raising funds for the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, and recently completed a solo 70 mile trek through the High Sierras dedicated to children battling cancer.

MMonica Aldana Woman of the Year

onica Aldana is a dedicated community leader, volunteer, and advocate whose impact has been felt across Scotts Valley schools, churches, and local organizations for over a decade. After her children started elementary school, she chose to focus her time and energy on serving others; bringing leadership, heart, and real results to every role she takes on.

Me Dance), dedicating three years to building and supporting an event that has become a meaningful experience for so many families in the community for SVEF.

His impact extends across many corners of the community. Adam played a key role in the Scotts Valley Haunted House, serving as construction manager and dedicating long hours to bring the

Through every role he takes on, Adam Cosner leads with humility, strength, and a genuine desire to make a difference. His contributions have left a lasting impact on Scotts Valley, making him a truly deserving recipient of this honor.

Arukah Project Organization of the Year

Monica has served as PTA/PTF President at Vine Hill Elementary, Scotts Valley Middle School, and Baymonte Christian School, and has been actively involved on parent club boards since 2014. Over the past decade, she has been part of efforts that have generated more than $2.5 million for local schools.

She also played an integral role in helping launch the VIP and Me Dance (formerly the Daughter and

Monica is also the driving force behind the My Scotts Valley Secret Santa program, which has supported hundreds of families during the holidays for the past nine years. She consistently steps up to organize, fundraise, and support initiatives that strengthen the community.

Monica moved to Scotts Valley in 2006 and has built deep roots here. She is passionate about the people, the sense of connection, and watching local families and children thrive.

A true positive influence on her daughters, local youth, and the broader community, Monica was recognized as a Top 10 Positive Woman Influencer in 2024.

Arukah Project is a beloved Scotts Valley nonprofit doing incredibly powerful, lifesaving work right here in Santa Cruz County. Defending the Vulnerable. Protecting the Exploited. Believing Survivors. Restoring Freedom.

Sex trafficking is happening far closer to home than many realize, and Arukah Project

is on the front lines daily, helping those who are trapped find safety, healing, and a path forward.

We couldn’t be prouder to recognize them and do our part to help get the word out.

Arukah Project helps provide survivors with a safe, hidden place to heal and the tools they need to restart their lives with dignity and hope.

We are honored to support their dream project, Hope House, which will expand their ability to protect and restore lives.

Please learn more and donate if you’re able at arukahproject.org.

And come to the Awards Gala on Friday, May 8th to celebrate with Arukah Project and all of our wonderful winners.

Scotts Valley Chamber News

New Member: The Pizza Series From Dough to Goal: Finding a Home in Scotts Valley

By KELLY GAVIN

There’s something about a good neighborhood pizza place that feels a little like home, and The Pizza Series has quickly become just that.

One of the newest members of the Scotts Valley Chamber, The Pizza Series brings more than great pizza to the table. It carries a story shaped by decades of experience, a few leaps of faith, and a deep connection to community that feels unmistakably local.

For owner Matt Driscoll, the journey started early. Back in 1996, he was a teenager working at Domino’s in Aptos, learning the basics of pizza making. Not long after, an opportunity would quietly shift everything. When a neighbor took over the old Straw Hat space and began transforming it into what would eventually become Brandos Pizzeria, Driscoll jumped in to help clean, remodel, paint, and even rethink the menu.

That experience planted a seed.

It showed him that a restaurant could be something personal, something creative, something entirely your own. From that point on, opening his own place was not just an idea; it was a goal.

Years later, after working across the local pizza scene and spending eight years at the Whole Foods pizza counter in a highly customer-facing role, that goal began to take shape. What started as an Instagram project, documenting pizzas and experimenting with recipes, grew into pop-ups, and eventually into something much bigger.

Looking back, Driscoll admits he did not necessarily imagine it would all lead to a full restaurant in Scotts Valley, but the path feels natural in hindsight.

“It’s awesome,” he says. “I’ve worked so many jobs, mostly pizza related, and it’s always been my passion. Now I’m doing exactly what I want to do, but on a bigger scale, and it’s completely ours.”

That sense of ownership runs deep.

For Driscoll, having a permanent space where people gather around something they created is both surreal and deeply fulfilling. It is the culmination of years of work, but also a continuation of the same passion that started back in Aptos.

The moment he realized his pizza was truly resonating with people actually goes back even further. With Brandos shifting from a chain into something local and independent, something else clicked. The dough and sauce became their own creations, and pizza started to feel less like a product and more like an art form. That same philosophy carries through today.

Scotts Valley, it turns out, was exactly where that philosophy could thrive.

With family ties to the area, the connection was already there. What began as a search for a prep kitchen led them to a space in the old Borland building. It came equipped with a ready to go pizza kitchen, and the decision felt almost meant to be.

From there, things moved quickly.

Starting with pizza by the slice and takeout dinners, the response from the

community was immediate. Even in a less visible location, people showed up in force. They sold out often. The momentum was undeniable.

“We felt the love right away,” Driscoll says. “That first year was huge for us. The response was insane, and we knew we were staying in Scotts Valley.”

As they grew, so did the need for a larger, more permanent space. After exploring several options, an unexpected connection helped bring everything together. The Ow family, longtime customers who loved the pizza, reached out with an opportunity at Kings Village. It turned out to be exactly the right fit.

Today, that space has been transformed into something that feels both fresh and familiar.

The menu reflects Driscoll’s years of experience and experimentation; they specialize in both Detroit style square pies and classic New York rounds. The dough is fermented for three days; ingredients are thoughtfully sourced, and everything from mushrooms to pineapple is cut fresh inhouse. Even the flour is organic. Meats are carefully selected and cooked on site. It is a level of care that might not always be visible, but it is unmistakable in the final product.

“It makes a difference,” he says simply.

And then there are the sauces.

What might have been an afterthought somewhere else becomes part of the experience here. Pesto ranch, buffalo ranch, Cholula ranch, each one a little unexpected, each one worth trying. And the Calabrian honey has already developed something of a local following. Don’t get me started on how delicious the maple ranch is!

Beyond the food, there is a clear intention behind the atmosphere. Driscoll and his fiancée and partner, Maddy Quesada, have created a space that feels warm, easy, and welcoming. It is the kind of place where conversations start between neighboring tables and regulars quickly become friends.

Maddy told me, “We want people to have a good, comfortable time,” and Matt chimed in, “Good food, good service. By the time you leave, you’ve probably heard thank you a bunch of times. That matters to us.”

That sense of community has only deepened through personal challenges as well. The couple went through a difficult period during Quesada’s liver transplant, an experience that tested them but ultimately made them stronger. Through it all, the support from the Scotts Valley community,

including the Ow family, reinforced that they were exactly where they were meant to be.

Like any business, the road has not been without its challenges. Building the right team took time and learning how to balance kindness with clear boundaries was part of that process. But today, Driscoll says they have found something special.

“We have the best team,” he says. “When you find the right people, you feel it. We trust them, and that makes everything work.” Many of their employees have been there for years and started as young high school kids.

That trust and stability show up in the day-to-day experience customers now enjoy.

Joining the Chamber is a natural extension of that connection.

For Driscoll, it is about businesses supporting each other, building relationships, and continuing to grow together. It is another way to stay engaged with the community that helped bring The Pizza Series to life.

Looking ahead, there is both confidence and excitement.

“We feel like we’re already part of Scotts Valley’s story,” he says. “We love this place, and people love what we’ve done. This is our mothership. We want to be here for the next 30 or 40 years. We’d also love to add locations; we’re having a great time.”

There are plans in motion, including an upstairs banquet space known as the Cloud Room, which will offer a different atmosphere from the forest inspired to feel downstairs. Matt knows there’s something cool happening here; The Pizza Series remains grounded in something simple. Good food. Genuine connection. A place where people feel at home. And in a town like Scotts Valley, that is exactly the kind of story that sticks.

County Mum on Details of Fire Station Arson County Records Show Surveillance

By JON CHOWN

SANTA CRUZ — The county isn’t sharing any information regarding the investigation into the arson attack on the Santa Cruz County Fire’s McDermott Station at 7276 Empire Grade Road.

At approximately 4:43 a.m. on Wednesday, March 18, sheriff’s deputies responded to reports of a water tender engulfed in flames at the station. The fire had been extinguished by firefighters at the scene, but the 2024 Kenworth T48 Fouts Fire tanker was a complete loss.

A search of the station was conducted and based on preliminary findings, the incident is believed to be arson.

No injuries were reported and due to the rapid response of firefighters, the station itself was saved. While the building sustained some water and smoke damage, mitigation efforts are underway, and the county said that resources have been relocated to ensure there is no disruption to emergency services in the community.

Cameras Should Have Captured the Act

officer for the county, said the investigation was ongoing, but nothing else. Questions about what led investigators to believe it was arson, whether the station’s surveillance equipment was working and whether there was video were deliberately not answered.

McDermott Station is located at the intersection of Empire Grade, Ice Cream Grade and Felton-Empire Road. The station was constructed in 2004. According to the Santa Cruz County Department LongRange Master Plan created in 2023, it is equipped with sprinklers and there is a security camera in the apparatus bay. The ground floor is occupied by volunteer quarters. The second floor is primarily used for equipment storage.

At approximately 4:43 a.m. on Wednesday, March 18, sheriff’s deputies responded to reports of a water tender engulfed in flames at the station. The fire had been extinguished by firefighters at the scene, but the 2024 Kenworth T48 Fouts Fire tanker was a complete loss.

The station is designed to house three vehicles and act as a disaster center for the Bonny Doon area. There are 16 firefighters assigned between the Bonny Doon and McDermott fire stations, according to the Master Plan.

The Sheriff’s Office is working in coordination with the Santa Cruz County Fire Department and CAL FIRE investigators on the case. Ashley Keehn, public information

A water tanker of the type destroyed could cost up to $1 million to replace. Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Jordan Malone at 831-454-7636. n

Get More from Your Store

Civics Summit at Cabrillo College Teaches Teens About Elections, Democracy

By CLAUDIA ISEMAN

After a five-year hiatus, The Civics Summit returned to Cabrillo College, enlightening local high school students on elections, media literacy and democratic rights and the Youth Bill of Rights.

“I like hearing from elected officials and what direction they’re taking our County, said Naio Cervantes, a senior at Cypress High School in Santa Cruz.

Cervantes was among about 170 students, teachers and a few elected officials from across the county to participate in the February 27 event. “It was time to bring the summit back,” said Faris Sabbah, County Superintendent of Schools. “We’re always looking at ways to engage students,” Sabbah added.

Led by Tricia Webber, County Clerk and Registrar of Voters, and in partnership with the Santa Cruz County Office of Education, United Way of Santa Cruz County, and Cabrillo College, the Summit featured three rotating workshops. One was Media Literacy, which aimed to educate students on how to recognize credible news sources about elections versus posts on social media that could potentially be “fake news.”

The United Way sponsored the Gallery Walk, which gave participants the opportunity to ask elected officials questions and learn to

advocate for themselves with the Youth Bill of Rights. They also had the opportunity to break up in small groups and dialog. “My hope is for students to connect with local leaders and decision makers and to learn to see themselves as change makers in their community,” said Pamela Velazquez, Director of community impact for United Way.

State Senator John Laird was encouraged to see the Gallery Walk well attended. “This is the future. I want to know what they’re thinking,” said Laird. Local high school social studies and history teachers were asked to invite one of their classes to the summit. The kids were treated to breakfast, lunch and a swag bag, including a T-shirt.

At the elections workshop, county registrar of voters, Tricia Webber, was busy fielding questions. “Our office is really pushing civic education. People are more apt to participate if they understand the process,” said Webber.

Haider Durrani, a junior at Scotts Valley High School participated in the mock election, complete with voting booths, as Webber instructed on the correct way to mark a ballot. “It’s good. It’s informative. I’m glad we have this opportunity,” said Durrani.

“I voted on proposition 50, said Cervantes. “I love Santa Cruz, I’ve been here my whole life.” n

COMMUNITY NEWS

County Seeks State Clarification on Housing Compliance Date Issue

is Central to Builder’s Remedy Disputes

By JON CHOWN

SANTA CRUZ — The Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday, March 11 decided to seek clarification from the California Department of Housing and Community Development about when the county’s housing plan was considered in compliance with state law, a determination that could affect several controversial development proposals under review.

Supervisors voted to send a letter asking the state agency to confirm that the county’s 2023–2031 Housing Element was deemed in substantial compliance on March 15, 2024 — the date county officials say the state completed its substantive review of the plan.

The county formally adopted its Housing Element on Nov. 14, 2023, and submitted revisions to the state on Feb. 23, 2024 after a required public comment period. Unfortunately, the state did nothing with the paperwork for several weeks. It would later issue a certification letter on April 23, 2024 that was backdated to April 12 after acknowledging the administrative error.

The gap between when the Housing Element could have been certified and when it finally was has become a point of contention because several developers submitted projects invoking the Builder’s Remedy provision of California housing law, which allows housing developments to bypass local zoning and General Plan requirements if a jurisdiction does not have a state-compliant Housing Element at the time of application.

Among those projects was a 57-unit

apartment building proposed at 841 Capitola Road in Live Oak. Developers filed the application on April 9, 2024, shortly before the state’s certification letter was issued.

The Builder’s Remedy law has been used across California to advance housing developments in cities and counties that failed to adopt state-compliant housing plans on time. No county or city in the state has yet to successfully challenge it in court.

The Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors ultimately approved the Capitola Road project earlier this year after a lengthy and contentious hearing, with neighbors arguing the development was too large for the surrounding neighborhood. County officials said state housing law left them with the choice to either approve the project or lose a costly court battle fighting it.

The neighbors wanted the county to fight and be the first to beat a developer using Builder’s Remedy. According to documents they obtained through Freedom of Information Act requests, state housing officials had verbally informed county staff by March 15, 2024 that the Housing Element was ready for certification. Internal communications also indicate that no additional substantive review occurred after that date.

County officials say confirming all this could clarify whether Builder’s Remedy should apply to projects submitted during the gap between the completion of the state’s review and the issuance of the formal certification letter.

“Builder’s Remedy” page 19

“STS9” from page 6

“We don’t think of ourselves as celebrities. We can go anywhere,” she said.

She said she’s more often recognized in Denver than in Santa Cruz. She recalled shopping for groceries at New Leaf Market when the checker noticed she was wearing an STS9 t-shirt.

“Oh my god, I love that band! They are so awesome!” The checker exclaimed.

Rocklin said she then had a short conversation about the band, never mentioning she was the bass player.

“I always feel just very free in Santa Cruz,” she said.

A Mixed-Tape Type of Genre Musically, STS9 doesn’t really stick to a genre. Hunter describes the band’s sound as “sort of soul, funk and jazz-influenced dance music,” rooted in a deep appreciation for classic records.

“We kind of just worship the albums of the ’70s — Herbie Hancock, Miles Davis — and we love hip-hop,” he said. “I grew up on it.”

He cited A Tribe Called Quest as a formative influence. “They kind of introduced me to jazz. I learned about records they were sampling. Now we study jazz. It’s a cornerstone of what we do.”

Rocklin said that description fits — “but just throw in some Aphex Twin.”

“It’s always a challenge to describe our music,” she said. “It’s really a collective of everything we grew up on. We grew up in the mixtape era. We do a mixtape of our love of music.”

It’s the presentation of that mixed tape that fans love to see performed live. As the band tours nationally in support of Human Dream, their one stop in California will be

“Builder’s Remedy” from page 17

Other proposals submitted during the same period include developments on Paul Sweet Road and Graham Hill Road. County Supervisor Manu Koenig said that the FIOA requests may have revealed a way for the county to oppose these projects.

“There were no substantial changes after March 15, which means it was in compliance, and then HCD was just kind of sitting on it … which really is not in good faith,’” said Koenig. “We should require the state to acknowledge that.”

Koenig added that state legislators had requested the county issue a formal letter after supervisors discussed the subject with them.

Supervisors also directed county staff to return March 24 with an analysis of how any clarification from the state could affect the pending projects. Unfortunately for the neighbors to the project at 841 Capitola Road, the supervisors’ action doesn’t change much for them. Supervisors already knew of this situation when they approved the project and encouraged neighbors to go to court, rather than spend county money. That still appears to be the case.

at at the Golden Road Gathering held in Placerville in May. They will headline on Saturday, May 16. Leftover Salmon and Lettuce headline the other two nights.

“We are always trying to play in California, and it was a great opportunity,” Rocklin said. “We’re glad we got to do it this year. All the other bands on the bill are incredible.”

The organizers of GRG said fans have noticed STS9 is on the bill and have responded. The festival has set a record this year with advanced ticket sales.

“Their live performances transcend the typical concert experience,” said Bob Hollis of GRG. “STS9 takes the audience on an experiential journey. With this being their only California tour stop, we’re offering West Coast fans a chance to experience one of the most innovative and uncompromising bands on the road today, and in a beautiful setting.”

Rocklin said the band has been looking forward to the performance.

“We’ve got some special things in the works for California,” she said.

Brown said STS9 continues to evolve while remaining grounded in its original vision.

“Our first album is still kind of the core spirit of what we are trying to do,” Brown said. “We still play a lot of those songs live, but how we do it has evolved into something more refined and approachable.”

At the same time, their connection to Santa Cruz remains a defining element.

“Santa Cruz is a huge influence on our music and how we approach it,” Rocklin said.

Brown agreed. “It’s definitely become part of the secret magic of the band. We’re really proud of that.” n

“Obviously this board has already had the hearing on 841 Capitola Road. We’ve already approved that project and we cannot go back in time and change that,” said Supervisor Justin Cummings. “So if HCD were to grant this request, all that does is provider greater clarity or strength of argument for anyone who chooses to challenge that approval. And, of course, it could also potentially impact the other projects.”

Concerns about the action were raised by Jason Health, county counsel for the county, who advised the supervisors that there would likely be some sort of legal consequences for the county, but was vague on what they might be. “You are inviting or accepting some kind of risk to the county,” he told them.

Board Chair Monica Martinez wanted to vote for staff to come back with a report on the possible legal consequences, but Cummings and Koenig pushed it forward.

“There’s a lot of risk in everything we do, and I think in this instance, it’s pretty clear HCD made a mistake,” Cummings said.

The motion to send the letter passed 4-1 with Martinez voting against. n

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR

ANNOUNCEMENTS

DROP-IN EVENING FIGURE DRAWING

7–9:30 p.m., Santa Cruz Art League, 526 Broadway

“Wonderful opportunity to work on drawing with a model, facilitated by a friendly instructor who created a warm atmosphere for all.”

— Evening Figure Drawing participant

Beginner to professional artists are welcome for these drop-in figure drawing sessions. Instruction and/or critique will not be offered.

Monday Evening Long Pose (March 2, 9, 16, 23, & 30) — Drop-in session of drawing or painting from a live nude model including long and short poses.

Thursday Evening Long Pose (March 5) — An evening of long poses for painting and drawing with a live model holding either one 2-hour or two 1-hour poses during the evening.

This session provides an opportunity for artists to create more detailed studies or focus their drawings or paintings.

Thursday Evening Gesture Study (March 19) — This session provides a great opportunity to practice capturing the essence and simplicity of the pose, rather than rendering the complexity and detail of the form. More like poetry than prose! The format for this evening will be a series of 1 minute poses, transitioning to 2, 3, and 5 minute poses.

Facilitated by Mark Sangster and Emily Cafaro.

Cost: $20 per session.

Attendance is limited, so come early or register in advance to be sure of a space. Easels are available.

Painters, please do not use strong-smelling solvents. Visit https://scal.org/dropin-workshops for more information.

ONGOING EVENTS

Mondays

BRIDGE CLUB

10:30 a.m.-Noon, 7695 Soquel Dr, Aptos, CA 95003

The Aptos Branch Library hosts Bridge Club sessions on Mondays (except holidays).

Bridge Club is a partnership between Santa Cruz County Parks and Santa Cruz Public Libraries.

Register at scparks.com or in-person the day of the event.

OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS

7 p.m., Congregational Church Preschool Meeting Room, 4951 Soquel Ave., Soquel

Overeaters Anonymous welcomes any type of eating disorder or problems with food. No dues, fees or weigh-ins.

Meetings take place at Congregational Church in the preschool meeting room. All are welcome.

Overeaters Anonymous (OA) has meetings daily both in-person and on-line in Santa Cruz County at santacruzoa.org

Fourth Mondays

THE SPOKEN EXPERIENCE

Noon – 1 p.m., Capitola Branch Library, 2005 Wharf Rd

Each month a community of readers gather to share selections from a featured poet.

Join local poets Paola Bruni, Elaine Fletcher Chapman and Jessica Cohn as they lead the discussion.

Upcoming poet focus:

March 23: Eavan Boland

April 27: Arthur Sze, current U.S. Poet Laureate

Tuesdays

TUESDAY NIGHT SALSA SOCIAL

7 – 10 p.m., Abbott Square Market, 725 Front St., Santa Cruz

Join a midweek salsa social at Abbott Square Market with salsa, cumbia, merengue, and bachata.

Free and open to all skill levels—just bring energy and dancing shoes.

More information: www.abbottsquaremarket.com

Have a virtual or live event you want to promote? E-mail info (no PDFs please) to info@cyber-times.com

BINGO AT MCSC

1-3 p.m., Mid County Senior Center, 829 Bay Avenue, Capitola (behind the Party Store)

Hot Dogs, Chili and snacks available for purchase courtesy of our Snack Shack. A lot of fun for all and a possible big win!

Door opens at 12:15 p.m.

Thursdays

SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING

7:15-9:15 p.m., Peace United Church 900 High St, Santa Cruz. Beginners welcome, partners not required. $10 each. Come dance!

HAPPY HOUR

5-7 p.m., California Coffee, 9105 Soquel Drive, Aptos California Coffee in Redwood Village hosts an open mic happy hour every week.

Third Thursdays

SIP AND STROLL

6-9 p.m. (check-in 5 p.m.), Seacliff Inn, 7500 Old Dominion Court, Aptos

Come to the Seacliff Inn: Tapestry Collection by Hilton, for a Sip & Stroll event where local artists to show and sell their works.

Wines are 30% off, and the featured winery will offer tastings of three varietals for $10 per person.

Details of this and more Sevy’s events at www.sevysbarand kitchen.com/events

WEEKLY FARMERS’ MARKETS

WEDNESDAYS

Fridays (except First Friday of the Month)

LA SELVA BEACH LIBRARY BRIDGE GROUP

10:30-Noon, La Selva Beach Public Library, 316 Estrella Ave. Come for bridge from 10:30 to noon at the La Selva Beach library.

Call La Selva Beach Library to reserve your seat: 831-427-7710.

First and Third Fridays

JIM GREINER’S HANDS-ON! DRUMMING

7-8:30 p.m., Congregational Church of Soquel, 4951 Soquel Dr. Percussionist/educator Jim Greiner continues his Community Rhythms Class on the first and third Fridays of every month at the Congregational Church of Soquel. April’s sessions are on the Apr. 3 and 17.

All levels of experience are very welcome to this familyfriendly community gathering. Jim provides percussion instruments and you are welcome to bring your own. Come play, socialize and reinforce Jim’s fundamental themes of communicating, collaborating and celebrating through rhythm!

$10 donation is requested. Doors open at 6:30.

Last Friday of the Month thru October FOOD TRUCK FRIDAY AT SKYPARK

5–8 p.m., Skypark, 361 Kings Village Road, Scotts Valley Food Trucks A Go Go presents an evening of local eats, live music and activities for all ages.

The monthly event supports Scotts Valley schools through beverage sales and offers a welcoming community gathering. Featured Band May 29: The Swag Tones Admission is free.

For details, visit foodtrucksagogo.com.

First Saturdays CAPITOLA BEACH CLEANUP

9-10 a.m., Esplanade Park

Help preserve and maintain the coastal beauty

DOWNTOWN SANTA CRUZ — 1 – 5 PM, Cedar St. & Church St.

A bustling market featuring certified organic produce, artisanal foods, seafood, baked goods, flowers, and prepared foods. EBT/SNAP accepted, and Market Match doubles purchases (up to $10). Free entry; metered and garage parking available — free after 6 PM. Live local music and street closures add vibrant atmosphere. Full vendor list and updates at santacruzfarmersmarket.org.

FRIDAYS

WATSONVILLE (Certified) — 3 – 7 PM, Peck St & Main St.

Allyear market offering Watsonville-grown produce, seafood, dairy, flowers, hot foods, artisan goods. Free entry; metered parking available. EBT/SNAP + Market Match. Vendor news via local AARP events.

SATURDAYS

WESTSIDE SANTA CRUZ — 9 AM – 1 PM, Mission St Ext & Western Dr.

Yearround market offering 100% certified-organic produce, seafood, meats, flowers, prepared meals, espresso bar, and artisan goods. Free parking on site. EBT/SNAP + Market Match. Often hosts pop-up breakfast events. Perfect for starting your weekend with fresh food and community energy. Full details at santacruzfarmersmarket.org.

APTOS (at Cabrillo College) — 8 AM – Noon, 6500 Soquel Drive Celebrated coastal market with over 90 vendors selling produce, sustainable seafood, artisan breads, honey, meats, flowers, and hot food. EBT/WIC accepted. Free/year-round weekend oasis for local flavors and crafts. Hosted by MontereyBayFarmers.

SUNDAYS

LIVE OAK/EASTSIDE — 9 AM – 1 PM, 15th & East Cliff Dr, Santa Cruz Vibrant seaside Sunday market featuring organic produce, fresh seafood, hot food stands (Mexican, crepes, brunch), pastries, coffee, flowers. Free parking, EBT/SNAP, Market Match, and monthly family-oriented events.

WATSONVILLE FAIRGROUNDS — 9 AM – 4 PM, 2601 E Lake Ave, Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds Year-round market with wide selection of local produce, meats, seafood, crafts, and prepared foods. EBT/SNAP accepted. Parking onsite. Great for combining a market visit with other Fairgrounds activities.

of Capitola. Join a beach cleanup every month at Esplanade Park.

Keep Capitola Salty is a grassroots movement dedicated to responsible efforts helping to maintain and preserve the environment, scenic beauty and coastal recreational activities of Capitola.

This movement is always looking for volunteers. Email KeepCapitolaSalty@gmail.com.

Saturdays and Sundays

ELKHORN SLOUGH: FREE TOUR OF THE PRESERVE 10 a.m. | 11 a.m., Elkhorn Slough Reserve, 1700 Elkhorn Road, Watsonville

Docent-led tours offer visitors a guided introduction to Elkhorn Slough’s remarkable landscapes, wildlife, and tidal wetlands.

Each walk is tailored to participants’ interests and abilities, creating an engaging, educational experience.

Space is limited, and tours are first-come, firstserved.

Guests can sign up at the Visitor Center front desk or call ahead the same morning at (831) 728-2822 for availability.

DATED EVENTS

Wednesday April 1

SPECIAL LUNCHEON WITH CONGRESSMAN JIMMY PANETTA 12–1:30 p.m., Seascape Golf Club, 610 Clubhouse Drive, Aptos The Aptos Chamber of Commerce will host a luncheon featuring Congressman Jimmy Panetta, who will discuss current national and global issues and their impact on the local community.

Attendees will have an opportunity to hear directly from the congressman and connect with local leaders and residents. Registration is required. For details, visit AptosChamber.com or call 831-688-1467.

Thursday April 2

MARTY O’REILLY AND ALEX LUCERO AT MOE’S ALLEY

8–11 p.m., Moe’s Alley, 1535 Commercial Way, Santa Cruz Catch local artist Marty O’Reilly, known from Season 28 of The Voice, live at Moe’s Alley, joined by soulful Americana vocalist Alex Lucero.

Experience heartfelt, authentic music that captivates and moves the audience.

Doors open at 7 p.m.

Tickets and more information are available at moesalley.com or ticketweb.com.

Friday April 3

THE GARDEN AT QUARRY AMPHITHEATER

7–10 p.m., Quarry Amphitheater, 1156 High St, Santa Cruz Catch The Garden, a fast, punk-influenced two-piece band, live at the Quarry Amphitheater.

Known for their energetic, off-the-wall performances worldwide, they embrace “vada vada,” a philosophy of total creative freedom without boundaries.

Enjoy a night of high-energy music and unique expression.

For tickets and details, visit quarryamp.com or theband’s official site.

Saturday April 4

EASTER ON THE FARM

11 a.m.–3 p.m., Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds, 2601 East Lake Avenue, Watsonville

Families are invited to celebrate Easter with egg hunts, crafts, puppet shows and tractor rides during this special Agricultural History Project event.

Visitors can meet farm animals, explore exhibits and enjoy hay wagon rides. Bring a picnic and browse the gift shop. Admission is free. For more information, visit aghistoryproject.org.

CASA Welcomes New Advocates for Children in Foster Care or Juvenile Justice

On March 3, Santa Cruz County Superior Court Judge Judge Rebecca Connolly swore in 10 community members as Court Appointed Special Advocates for children in foster care or juvenile justice. This was upon their completion of the CASA 35-hour training program.

CASA of Santa Cruz County recruits, trains, and supervises volunteer Advocates who are matched one-on-one with a child in the county’s dependency (foster care) or juvenile justice court system. Advocates support and speak up for their assigned child throughout the duration of their case.

As officers of the Court, CASA volunteers spend 2–4 hours per week with their assigned child or youth, ensuring their needs are recognized and their best interests are represented in the courtroom, at school, and in the community. People are needed from all cultures, professions, and ethnic and educational backgrounds. To learn more and show up for a child or youth in our community and become a CASA volunteer Advocate, please contact Clarita Cortes at (831) 761-2956, ext. 102, or visit www.casaofsantacruz. org/volunteer. n

Santa Cruz County Announces $810,000 in Opioid Settlement Grants

Santa Cruz County’s Health Services Agency and Community Foundation

Santa Cruz County have awarded $810,000 to local nonprofits through the Santa Cruz County Opioid Settlement Funds Community Grant Program, marking the second round of funding. Since September 2024, the program has distributed a total of $1.62 million.

The grants support prevention, early intervention, harm reduction, treatment, and recovery programs for opioid-related disorders, expanding services for individuals and families affected by substance use in the county. Funded projects include a new residential treatment facility, increased access to housing and case management, enhanced care for newborns impacted by opioid exposure, and community-based prevention initiatives.

“By investing in additional harm reduction services and a new treatment facility in Watsonville, we are increasing access to life-saving care and giving more residents

across Santa Cruz County a pathway to lasting recovery,” said Connie Moreno-Peraza, director of the Health Services Agency.

Santa Cruz County expects to receive $29 million over 16 years from opioid manufacturers, pharmaceutical distributors, and pharmacies as part of litigation settlements. In 2023, the Board of Supervisors approved a spending plan that included grants to nonprofits providing prevention and treatment services.

The 2026 grantees and their programs are:

• New Life Community Services — $201,358 to open a new 14-bed bilingual residential treatment facility in Watsonville.

• Housing Matters — $170,000 to hire a Substance Use Specialist to secure permanent housing for people with a history of opioid use disorder.

• Santa Cruz Community Health — $135,642 to treat newborns with Neonatal

Opioid Withdrawal Syndrome and support high-risk families transitioning from hospital to home.

• Siena House — $80,000 for a full-time case manager and expanded therapy services for women and children.

• Homeless Garden Project — $60,000 to provide transitional employment and staff training for individuals in recovery.

• Stepping Up Santa Cruz — $48,000 to hire a Harm Reduction Case Manager.

• Barrios Unidos Santa Cruz — $30,000 for opioid use prevention, early intervention, harm reduction, and youth leadership.

• Health Improvement Partnership of Santa Cruz County — $85,000 for SafeRx initiatives, including learning collaboratives, conferences, and advisory groups focused on treatment and community education.

“These grants are helping organizations find innovative and compassionate solutions

through prevention and treatment to tackle the opioid epidemic in our community,” said Community Foundation CEO Susan True. Leaders of individual programs emphasized the impact of the funding. “Employment is more than a paycheck — it’s a powerful health intervention,” said Darrie Ganzhorn, executive director of Homeless Garden Project. Nadia Allami, pediatric medical director at Santa Cruz Community Health, said the grant strengthens collaboration with hospitals and ensures consistent care for families affected by neonatal abstinence syndrome. Stacey Palau, executive director of New Life Community Services, said the funding will expand bilingual, bicultural residential treatment and reentry services for individuals and families. n Residents seeking support for substance use disorders can visit the Santa Cruz County Opioid Prevention and Response webpage or call 2-1-1, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

SCCAS Featured Pet

Family Affair

Wilbur (A287754) and Rosie (A287750) are white Vietnamese potbelly pigs who’d love to have a new rural home to call their own! As fully-grown adult pigs, they each weigh over 160 lbs, and they’re intelligent and fun pets to have around.

Rosie is 5 years old and is actually mother to Wilbur, who is 4, so their bond is strong and they enjoy one another’s company. They’ve also lived with pig-friendly dogs, cats, and goats. Wilbur has been neutered, so there won’t be any additions to their family if they’re the only pigs around.

Although sometimes kept as household pets in urban or suburban areas, pigs — even small-breed pigs like these two — are usually happiest when they live on rural properties where there’s space to explore and root around, where they have a safe indoor place to stay at night (like a barn or a shed), a muddy wallow to cool themselves in, and where they’ll get a healthy, varied diet.

A healthy pot belly pig diet usually consists of pig pellets, lots of fresh water, plenty of fresh vegetables like leafy greens, carrots, cucumbers and bell peppers, and fruit as an occasional treat. They’ll also happily help themselves to insects, worms, grubs and even eggs or small rodents if they can get their snouts on them. Although they’ll eat just about anything, they are highly susceptible to obesity and other serious diet-related health problems, so it’s important that owners be thoughtful.

They should NOT be fed dog or cat food, nor processed human foods.

With decent care pigs can be expected to live 14 to 18 years, so you’ve got to be ready to commit! You also need to check your local zoning codes and/or with your homeowners’ association before you bring a pig home — in unincorporated Santa Cruz County, for example, pigs are only allowed on properties zoned “Agricultural Residential.”

So, if you”ve gotten yourself to be pig-savvy and live on a “piggable” property, consider Rosie & Wilbur! They’re a bonded pair, so they can be adopted together for a single $100 adoption fee. n

The Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter is full of adoptable animals. Fostering animals is an awesome way to improve a Shelter animal’s life and fill your home with love and fun! If you are interested in fostering any kind of animal please email jillian.ganley@santacruzcounty.us. You can also Follow SCCAS on Instagram and/or Facebook to stay up-to-date on shelter news and where to find adoptable pets around town at breweries, stores and events. All adoptions are first come, first served.

Santa Cruz County Animal Shelter’s full-service, open-admission shelter 1001 Rodriguez St., Santa Cruz, 95062 • Hours: Daily 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. (Arrive before 4 p.m. for “meet and greet” — Please ring bell for stray animal drop-off from 7 a.m. – 11 a.m.) 580 Airport Blvd., Watsonville, 95076 • Hours: Tues.-Sat. 9:30 a.m.–noon; 1–5 p.m. (Closed Sun/Mon — Please ring bell for stray animal dropoff 9:30 a.m.-noon; 1-5 p.m.) Website: www.scanimalshelter.org

SCCAS Main line: 831-454-7200. Animal Control: 831-454-7227. After-Hours Emergency: 831-471-1182 • After Hours: jillian.ganley@santacruzcounty.us