The Board's goal in this process was to review the work of hundreds of programs that protect our environment, ensure public health and safety and improve opportunity while also balancing the County’s budget. This year I worked to secure funding for the Nurse-Family Partnership program in order to transform the lives of low-income first-time moms and their babies. In addition to that, I worked to increase public safety by adding two probation officers to monitor domestic violence and other potentially violent offenders. In time for what will be a critical, high turn-out election, I worked with County Clerk Gail Pellerin to make sure all Santa Cruz County voters will not have to pay postage when they mail in their ballots-removing a small but important barrier in our voting system. Click here to read more about my budget priorities.  

During budget hearings, the County Human Services Department (HSD) shared this video that helps illustrate the critical work they do to help some of our community's most vulnerable individuals.

While budget hearings are over, I always welcome your participation either in person or via email throughout the year.