Approved by Santa Cruz County voters in November 2024, the Santa Cruz County Safe Drinking Water, Clean Beaches, Wildfire Risk Reduction, and Wildlife Protection Initiative (Measure Q) is a transformative local effort aimed at protecting and enhancing the county’s precious natural resources. This initiative prioritizes water quality, wildfire prevention, habitat restoration, and the creation of resilient ecosystems to ensure the health and well-being of Santa Cruz County’s environment and its residents for generations to come.
Measure Q is funded through a modest annual parcel tax of $87 and is expected to generate more than $7 million annually. These funds will support vital projects, including:
- Water Conservation and Quality: Protecting and replenishing local water supplies by enhancing watershed health, reducing erosion, and safeguarding rivers, creeks, and groundwater resources.
- Wildfire Risk Reduction: Preventing catastrophic wildfires by developing shaded fuel breaks, managing forests to reduce dangerous fuel loads, and maintaining defensible spaces around communities.
- Wildlife and Habitat Protection: Preserving biodiversity by restoring critical habitats, protecting wildlife corridors, and conserving coastal and forest ecosystems.
- Clean Beaches and Coastal Protection: Keeping beaches free from pollution, enhancing public access, and protecting marine life from environmental threats.
- Community Resilience: Supporting projects that reduce climate risks, improve recreational opportunities, and provide equitable access to parks, trails, and open spaces.
Funding Distribution and Prioritization
Measure Q funds are distributed as follows:
- 40% to a County-administered grant program for eligible projects that address countywide environmental needs.
- 20% to incorporated cities (Santa Cruz, Watsonville, Scotts Valley, Capitola) for local projects, with allocations based on population and a minimum annual distribution of $200,000 per city.
- 20% to the unincorporated areas of the county for targeted improvements.
- 20% to the Resource Conservation District of Santa Cruz County and a land stewardship partner to support projects on private lands that deliver public benefits, such as improved water quality and fire resilience.
To maximize impact, funding prioritization focuses on:
- Leveraging Additional Resources: Projects that can attract matching funds from state, federal, or private grants receive priority, amplifying the impact of local investments and ensuring no additional cost to taxpayers.
- Equity and Accessibility: Special consideration is given to projects that benefit disadvantaged communities or provide equitable access to natural spaces, ensuring all residents share in the initiative's benefits.
- Multiple Benefits and Climate Resilience: Projects that address overlapping challenges, such as reducing climate risks while improving water quality or public access, are prioritized to deliver comprehensive solutions.
- Geographic and Ecological Need: Funding is allocated to areas with acute environmental challenges, such as wildfire-prone forests or flood-prone watersheds, to address urgent needs and mitigate risks.
Transparency and Oversight
A Citizens Oversight Advisory Board ensures transparency and accountability. This board:
- Conducts public hearings and gathers input on funding priorities.
- Reviews annual reports from agencies and organizations funded by Measure Q.
- Supports the development and approves the Vision Plan every five years to guide investments based on current needs and best practices.
By investing in essential environmental projects, Measure Q strengthens Santa Cruz County’s resilience to natural disasters, safeguards its rich biodiversity, and enhances the quality of life for all residents. This initiative embodies the community's commitment to preserving its unique environment and ensuring a sustainable future.