How can we create an open space district in Santa Cruz County?
The creation of a local open space district is a three step process. Step One: The State Legislature must pass a bill that allows or enables the County Board of Supervisors to initiate a process to place a measure on the ballot to form a district. Currently, state Senate Bill 211 is the pending enabling legislation for Santa Cruz County. This bill is authored by Senator Joe Simitian and co-authored by Assembly Member Bill Monning and Assembly Member Anna Caballero, all of whom represent portions of Santa Cruz County. This bill does not create a district, it simply allows the County to put the question of a district to the voters. Step Two: If SB 211 becomes law, the Land Trust will work with the Board of Supervisors to initiate a public process, including public hearings, involving representatives from cities, county agencies and community groups (including the Farm Bureau, agricultural and environmental communities) to develop measures creating and funding a district. Step Three: The
