Celebrating Community Spirit

Dear District 5 Residents,

The past couple of weeks have been a powerful reminder of just how much heart lives in our community. Whether it's helping seniors age in place, cleaning up our schools and streets, volunteering in our parks, or lifting up our youth – it’s clear that our community thrives because of the people who care enough to give back.

It’s been my honor to join in a number of events recently, and I want to take a moment to share just a few of the stories that highlight the incredible commitment, compassion, and leadership that surrounds us every day. I hope you’ll join me in celebrating all those who continue to make our district such a vibrant and connected place to live.

Sincerely,

[officialname]

Santa Cruz County Supervisor, District 5

Thank You to Everyone Who Pitched In!

Supervisor Martinez and SLE Student Volunteers

Nearly eighty groups participated in the recent Pitch In Santa Cruz Countywide Cleanup – including many here in District 5!

A special shout-out goes to the students and parents who turned out for the SLV Tri-Campus cleanup, an event sparked by my 5th-grade daughter, Bella. She’s been bothered by the amount of trash around school and decided to do something about it – even convincing her softball teammates to join her. I couldn’t be prouder.

Litter impacts our health, our environment, and our sense of pride in place. Events like these help us keep our neighborhoods clean and remind us that community change often starts small, and close to home.

To stay involved or find more cleanup opportunities, visit pitchinsantacruz.org. I hope to see you next year on May 9, 2026, for the next Countywide Cleanup Day!

Recognizing the Amazing Volunteers at Quail Hollow Ranch County Park

Supervisor Martinez and Volunteers at Quail Hollow Ranch County Park

It was my pleasure this week to recognize and thank the numerous volunteers who have been working to improve and expand the Quail Hollow Ranch County Park. In 2024, volunteers worked 4035 hours at Quail Hollow Ranch!

Volunteers lead hikes (including moonlight walks), educate visitors about the flora and fauna of the unique sandhills environment, monitor bird breeding, and host events like history talks and astronomy night “Star Parties.” Volunteers also regularly maintain trails, removing invasive plants like Scotch Broom and Bull Thistle. This year they are going above and beyond by also helping to build an additional two miles of trail!

To learn more, visit Quail Hollow Ranch County Park and Friends of Quail Hollow Ranch.

If you are interested in volunteering, contact the volunteer coordinator of the Santa Cruz County Parks Department at (831) 454-7927 or by sending an email to volunteer@parks.santacruzcountyca.gov.

Presenting the 2024 Scotts Valley Community Awards

It was my pleasure to be among the elected officials honoring the recipients of the 2024 Community Awards presented annually by the Scotts Valley Chamber of Commerce to the outstanding individuals and organizations that make Scotts Valley an exceptional place to live and work.

Supervisor Martinez, Donna Lind, Chamber Ambassador of the Year, and Assembly Member Gail Pellerin

Chief Steve Walpole, Man of the Year, has volunteered countless hours in his hometown of Scotts Valley – from police chief to youth sports coach, parade monitor, and supporter of the Special Olympics. He is a model of community engagement.

Sharon Willey, Woman of the Year, is a tireless advocate for students and schools. As the current President of the SVHS Parent Club, she has organized fundraisers and community events, supported a campaign to fund the maintenance of school facilities, and much more. Willey embodies the kind of school spirit and parent engagement that makes a real difference.

Dayna Nedney, Educator of the Year, has spent 23 years inspiring students at SVHS with energy, curiosity, and a love of learning. Her impact is lasting and wide-reaching.

Alexandra Morairty, Youth of the Year, has led her peers to create a more inclusive campus in her role as student body president. She planned and participated in community-minded events like blood drives, coat collections, the Haunted House fundraiser, and Culture Week.

SVHS Hope Squad, Organization of the Year, is a student-led peer support group focused on mental health and suicide prevention. These community-minded students are building a culture of care.

Donna Lind, Chamber Ambassador of the Year, is a local legend. As a retired police sergeant and longtime city council member, she has served the community for 57 years and is the longest serving Scotts Valley Chamber Ambassador.

Kissed by an Angel Wines, Business of the Year, was founded in honor of Larry and Lisa Olivio’s daughter, Amanda. Through their business, they’ve raised over $100,000 for Make-A-Wish and supported countless other local causes.

Ride Along with Meals on Wheels

Supervisor Martinez and Recipients of Meals on Wheels in SLV

I recently had the privilege of joining a Meals on Wheels delivery route here in our district. Meeting some of the seniors who rely on these meals, and seeing the care and kindness of the volunteers, was a deeply moving experience.

Meals on Wheels delivers much more than food. It provides a connection, a check-in, and a reminder that no one is forgotten. In our rural mountain communities, this service can make the difference between aging at home or not.

I’m grateful to the team at Meals on Wheels and to every volunteer who shows up week after week to make sure our elders are supported, nourished, and seen.

To learn more or get involved, visit Meals on Wheels.

Upcoming In-District Office Hours

To reduce wait time, we are now utilizing a reservation system. Click here to reserve a 15 minute time-slot in advance. Drop-in visitors are still welcome, and will be seen in order of arrival as time allows between or after reservations.

May 27, 3:30 to 5 p.m. (Boulder Creek Sheriff’s Substation, 13210 Central Avenue)
June 16, 3:30 to 5 p.m. (Scotts Valley Library Community Room, 251 Kings Village Road)
June 30, 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. (Felton Office, 6062 Graham Hill Road Suite A &

The purpose of In-District Office Hours is to provide a convenient way for me to hear from you. However, if you have a problem that will require more than 15 minutes to discuss, or you cannot come during the times listed above, my office is happy to work with you to schedule another time meet. Contact my staff at fifth.district@santacruzcountyca.gov or by calling (831) 454-2200.

Upcoming Board Meetings

Read meeting agendas here as they become available.

Upcoming meetings will take place at 9 a.m. until their conclusion on:

June 3 - 4 Budget Hearings

June 10

June 24

The County will be closed on May 26 for Memorial Day