In today's newscast:
Civil Grand Jury reports are out
The 2025-2026 Santa Cruz County Civil Grand Jury is offering recommendations for how to bridge the gap between planned housing development and what’s financially practical.
The jury determined the county is technically in compliance with state obligations for housing development. But practically, it remains far from achieving stated goals. The report identifies the lack of a public, comprehensive financial feasibility plan for housing development as a major hole. Such a plan would help officials identify and begin working through the zoning, permitting or other barriers prohibiting necessary progress.
Without implementing recommended changes, the jury found that the County “risks continuing a pattern of 'paper compliance' that satisfies statutory requirements while failing to make meaningful progress towards alleviating its housing crisis.”
In a separate report, the grand jury gave the county a gold star for election integrity.
Bill would cap HOA fees
A bill advancing at the statehouse aims to help offset California’s high cost of living for some by capping homeowners association fees.
Right now, HOAs can increase dues by up to 20% each year.
If this bill passes, it would cap HOA fee hikes at 8%.
In an HOA, maintenance, repairs and insurance expenses are divided among homeowners.
More than a third of California residents live in an HOA. Supporters say the cap would help families who are struggling. But some critics worry the cap could keep needed repairs from happening.
The current version of the bill would allow homeowners to raise fees beyond 8% a year, but only if a majority of HOA members vote to approve it.
That reporting from our partner, CalMatters.
