Dear District 5 Resident,

Yesterday, my colleagues appointed me to serve as Chair of the Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors for 2026. I am deeply honored by their trust, and I step into this role with a strong sense of responsibility to lead with integrity, clarity, and purpose. As the first openly LGBTQ+ and Latina person to serve as Chair, I am proud to help shape a future that reflects the full diversity and strength of our community.

Serving as Chair is an opportunity to help set the direction of the County at a pivotal moment. In the year ahead, I will work closely with my colleagues and our new County CEO, Nicole Coburn, to finalize the County’s strategic and operational plans for 2026–2032. This work will guide how we prepare for climate impacts, navigate budget pressures, and protect essential services that residents rely on every day.

I will focus on three core priorities: strengthening emergency preparedness and climate resilience, protecting access to essential services like health care and food assistance, and improving how County government shows up for residents—especially in our mountain communities—when people need help navigating complex systems.

My approach will be grounded in transparency, accountability, and a focus on outcomes that matter in people’s daily lives. While much of the Board’s work happens outside the spotlight, the decisions we make shape how effectively the County delivers services, responds to emergencies, and plans for the future. I take this responsibility seriously and will continue to elevate community voices and push for practical, people-centered solutions.

While I take on this countywide leadership role, serving District 5 remains my central priority. I will continue to advocate for the unique needs of our mountain communities and ensure that District 5 is not overlooked, but elevated. My goal is simple and steadfast: to strengthen the County’s ability to serve our community well, even in times of uncertainty.

The year ahead will bring real challenges, including budget constraints and external pressures that affect public health, civil rights, and environmental protections. I believe this moment calls for steady leadership, collaboration, and a clear commitment to protecting our most vulnerable residents while preparing our County to meet what lies ahead.

As I begin my second year as your Supervisor, I want to hear directly from you about what is most important to you and your family. I will continue to hold In-District Office Hours over the coming months, and I invite you to visit my website to view dates and reserve a time to connect.

I am also hosting a District 5 Town Hall on February 3 at 6:00 p.m. at the Felton Community Hall. This will be an opportunity to share your priorities, help inform the County’s next strategic plan, and shape the future of our district together. I hope you will join me.