A Santa Cruz County Like Me:
Balance and Equity in Government

The County of Santa Cruz has approximately 40 standing committees and commissions that must be appointed by the Board of Supervisors. The majority of these advisory bodies are made up county residents and serve to advise the Board on a large number of issues around housing, land use, gender, race, historic resources, and access among others.

To better represent the County, a greater range of voices is needed! The County is seeking to expand commission/committee participation by South County residents, renters, Hispanic/Latino residents, those with disabilities, and especially younger adults.

The County is collaborating with local cities, community based organizations, and community leaders to align efforts focused on representation. The County put out an online survey to gather information from county residents on what is needed for increased participation; in addition to, hosting three in person community workshops during the month of June to facilitate conversations around representation. Information gathered from the survey, the workshops, and any other collaborative efforts will inform future strategies and reform efforts.

To learn more about County commissions, committees, and advisory bodies, click here.