February 7, 2025

Staying Safe and Dry in the Rainy Season

With winter weather in full swing, we want to ensure the safety and well-being of our community. Here are a few reminders and tips to help keep you safe during wet weather conditions.

Stay Informed

• Sign up for CruzAware to receive critical information during natural disasters, severe weather events, public safety concerns, and other emergencies.
• Monitor weather updates for changes due to severe weather conditions.

Drive Safely

• Allow extra time for your commute to account for slower traffic and potential delays.
• Slow down and allow extra stopping distance.
• NEVER drive through flooded roads – just 6 inches of water can sweep you away!
• Turn headlights on to improve visibility.
• Watch for debris and fallen tree branches.

Plan Ahead

FREE sandbags are available to City residents and businesses at the following locations.

Empty Sandbag Locations

• Fire Administration Office — 230 Walnut Street
• Parks and Rec Administration — 323 Church Street
• London Nelson Community Center — 301 Center Street

Sand Locations (Please arrive with empty sandbags and a shovel.)

• Harvey West Park — 326 Evergreen Street
• Behind Fire Station 2 — 1103 Soquel Avenue

Feb. 18 Community Webinar on Flood Control and Climate Change

How might climate change impact river flooding in the future? Participate in this community webinar on Feb. 18 from 6-7 p.m. to learn about new modeling of the potential impacts of climate change on San Lorenzo River flooding and discuss how the City and the community can begin planning for it.

Nine New Police Officers Join the Santa Cruz Police Department

On Tuesday, February 4, nine officers took an oath to serve and protect the city of Santa Cruz and officially joined the Santa Cruz Police Department!

Join us in giving these officers a big Santa Cruz welcome as they embark on their careers in public safety.

Annual Water System Flushing Begins Next Week

As part of the City’s ongoing commitment to maintain water quality and safeguard public health, the Water Department will begin its annual flushing maintenance next week. This essential routine maintenance, mandated by the Water Board, will take several months to complete.

Flushing forces water through pipes at high speeds to cleanse the distribution system of any accumulated sediments to optimize water quality and improve the capacity of our pipes. While this process is carefully planned to minimize disruptions, residents may experience temporary changes in water clarity or pressure. If you experience any issues, please call customer service at (831) 420-5220.

Please don’t be alarmed if you see crew members releasing water from hydrants, as this is a normal part of the flushing process. Your cooperation during this period is appreciated, as this project contributes to the longevity and reliability of our water infrastructure. We thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we work together to ensure a clean, safe, and reliable water supply for our community.

Jive Machine Performs February 12 at Wharf Wednesdays

Continuing February 12 – 26, Wharf Wednesdays is a concert series with a different performer each week, created to support Wharf businesses after the winter storm event and temporary closure of the Wharf in December.

The Economic Development and Housing is partnering with Parks and Recreation to draw people to the Wharf this winter to offset the revenue loss from the post-storm closure during the peak holiday season.

City Council approved the event series as part of a package of relief efforts along with free 2-hour parking on the Wharf through the end of February.

Attendees are invited to sign up for a giveaway featuring $100 gift cards for each of the 18 non-seasonal Wharf businesses. The giveaway is offered each week with 18 winners receiving $100 gift cards.

The event is produced by Matthew Swinnerton from Event Santa Cruz who also produces popular events like Midtown Fridays in collaboration with the City’s Economic Development and Housing Department.

Join us from 6:00pm – 8:00pm on Wednesdays through February 26!

Wharf Wednesday Lineup

February 12 – Jive Machine

February 19 – Trestles

February 26 – Trianna Feruza and Friends

Join the City's New Sustainability and Resiliency Committee!

The City of Santa Cruz is recruiting residents with expertise in climate advocacy, transportation, water, trees, waste, buildings, energy, or resiliency for three at-large members (including one youth age 24 or younger) to serve on the new Sustainability and Resiliency Committee.

This is a pilot committee that serves as an advisory body to the Santa Cruz City Council on climate and resiliency issues, helping to guide the operationalization and implementation of activities to reach climate and resiliency goals. The application deadline is Monday, February 24. Learn more.

Join the CPVAW as a Youth Commissioner!

The Commission on the Prevention of Violence Against Women (CPVAW) is looking for a passionate and motivated non-voting Youth member to join the Commission! This is a unique opportunity for a high school student to serve as a bridge between youth and the Commission, ensuring youth voices are heard in local government decision-making.

As a Youth Commissioner, you will:

• Provide advice and share your perspectives with CPVAW.
• Help connect the ideas and concerns of young people to the Commission’s work.

Youth Commission Details:

• Term: One year from the date of appointment
• Meetings: 6:30 PM, first Wednesdays of February, March, May, August, September, and November
• Stipend: $75 per meeting
• Eligibility: Open to students in grades 9–12 who live in the City of Santa Cruz
• Deadline to Apply: February 20, 2025

Register for March 19 Santa Cruz County Skilled Trades Job Fair

Are you looking for a job or training in the skilled trades? Attend the Santa Cruz County Skilled Trades Job Fair on March 19!

At this job fair, you'll meet employers in construction, building, solar, electrical, plumbing, welding, HVAC, carpentry, agriculture and more! Learn about job opportunities, classes, apprenticeships, and pre-apprenticeships.

On-site resume review and translation services will be available.



City of Santa Cruz

City Manager's Office

809 Center Street

Santa Cruz CA 95060

santacruzca.gov

831-420-5010