Interactive Budget Site Launched By Santa Cruz County

News release from the County of Santa Cruz:

SANTA CRUZ, CA — In order to increase transparency, trust and accountability consistent with the County’s Strategic Plan, the County of Santa Cruz has launched a online, interactive budget site allowing residents to better understand and monitor County spending and priorities through the 2022-23 Proposed Budget.

In addition to increasing access, the online tool links the County Strategic Plan, the County Operational Plan, and the Proposed Budget and provides more detail than ever before. Public users can start at the highest level with an overview from County Administrative Officer Carlos J. Palacios before diving into specific services and budget details.

Most County services have detailed emerging issue sections and operational plan work objectives that allow the user to learn about the most recent issues impacting the County. Users may also input their home address to learn more about representation and services in their neighborhood.

The site is available at https://www.santacruzcounty.us/VisionSantaCruz/Budget.aspx.

The $1.033 billion Proposed Budget includes a $680.7 million general fund, and improves funding for public safety including full implementation of the Public Defender’s Office, upgrades to Juvenile Hall and improvements at other detention facilities and additional resources to the District Attorney’s Office to address case backlogs.

The Proposed Budget also includes support for the Pajaro Valley Health Care District, funding for the new Unified Permit Center and the new Community Development and Infrastructure Department, and funding for the development of the South County Service center. Expanded broadband services, support for women- and minority-owned businesses in the early education/childcare sector nd a new apprenticeship program to provide a pathway for residents into public service.