Monterey County

In this week's round-up: UC Santa Cruz researchers say they can predict harmful algal blooms, Central Coast governments prepare for El Niño, election season is upon us, and more.

Santa Cruz County Clerk Tricia Webber says "voting naked" is a benefit both to the voter and elections staff.

Central Coast governments are bracing for a strong El Niño. And, the League of Women Voters hosts a Salinas candidate forum tonight.

The Transportation Agency for Monterey County wants to know where people feel unsafe biking and walking. And, a federal rule change on public charge determinations takes effect.

Monterey County’s Flock cameras will be gone by December. And, Watsonville decided to keep the cameras, but with new constraints.

The Monterey Board of Supervisors received an update at Tuesday's meeting about the recent flareup. And, Gov. Gavin Newsom vetoes a bill affecting 60,000 students enrolled in California universities.

The Monterey County Government Center reopens after closing unexpectedly more than two weeks ago. And, a Santa Cruz Mountain town is facing permanent closure of its post office.

Sixty-seven acres of restored natural habitat in the heart of Salinas is now open to the public. And, an executive order aims to speed up oversight of artificial intelligence in California and study new rules.

Rescue teams have responded to 150 sea lions infected with domoic acid poisoning this summer. And, Monterey County officials hope to reopen the government center in Salinas soon after what they’ve called “an extensive sewer line malfunction.”

The recent viral video of a teenaged lifeguard rescuing a boy at Seabright State Beach in Santa Cruz is just one of several ocean rescues this season. And, an amicus brief filed in San Jose this week includes 11 Central Coast communities.