Capitola, California Development News
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Capitola City Council 07/23/2026
Published: Jul 23, 2026
City Council Approves Transition to District-Based Elections, Selects Map 412
The City Council unanimously approved the introduction of an ordinance to transition to district-based elections. This decision follows extensive public outreach, including multiple hearings, mapping tools, and public comment periods. Map 412 was selected as the official map to be included in the ordinance. The election sequencing was determined by a coin toss, resulting in District 3 (the central 'upside down T' district) and the Mayor's race being up for election in November 2028, with Districts 1, 2, and 4 up in 2030. This transition is a fiscally prudent approach to avoid potential litigation related to election laws.
Public Art Sculpture 'To Honor the Women of Water' Approved for Installation
The council unanimously approved the 'To Honor the Women of Water' public art sculpture project. The sculpture, a woman surfer, will be a companion piece to the existing male surfer statue. The project is privately funded through a campaign led by County Park Friends, with an estimated value of $350,000 and a target installation of Fall 2027. An interim location has been identified, with potential for modification based on community engagement regarding the Esplanade Park enhancement project. The artists involved in the companion piece, Brian Curtis and Thomas Marsh, will collaborate again, with Allison Hobbs as lead landscape designer and Bob Pearson advising on the surfboard design. The project aims to be the third statue of its kind globally and will be located in a redeveloped area with seating and landscaping.
Police Chief Addresses Community Following Tragic Incident, Praises Department's Response
The Chief of Police provided an update following a tragic incident, offering condolences to the victim's family and emphasizing the department's commitment to justice. The Chief acknowledged the community's shock and distress, especially for an incident occurring in a public area. The department's rapid response in identifying and arresting the suspect was highlighted. The Chief also stressed the resilience of the Capola community and encouraged seeking support resources. Council members echoed the condolences and praised the police department's handling of the situation.
Cliffwood Heights Neighborhood Rehabilitation Project Scope Discussed
The council discussed the Cliffwood Heights neighborhood rehabilitation project, which involves roadway rehabilitation, adding a continuous sidewalk to the middle school, and potentially improving a rolled shoulder on Monterey Avenue. The project is intended to address significant infrastructure needs in the eligible CDBG neighborhood. The estimated cost is close to $5 million. The council also clarified that Cliffwood Heights was selected over other neighborhoods due to its poor pavement condition index and proximity to the middle school for safe routes to school. The project's eligibility for CDBG funding was also explained, noting that citywide eligibility is no longer the case.
Bay Avenue Corridor Safety Improvements Approved, Focus on Bay Hill and Center Street Intersections
The council directed staff to proceed with traffic and safety improvements along the Bay Avenue corridor, focusing on the Bay Hill intersection and the Center Street crossing. Proposed improvements include solar lighting, a raised pedestrian crossing with ADA ramps and curb extensions at Center Street, and permanent flashing signage at Hill Street. While funding is secured for the Bay Avenue corridor, including a $250,000 grant from Congressman Panetta, further traffic studies will inform the final design of the Center Street crossing. Concerns were raised about the potential impact of removing the right-hand turn lane at Center Street on traffic flow and the feasibility of pedestrian refuges.
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The Capitola News archive
Capitola Planning Commission 07/16/2026
Capitola City Council 06/25/2026
SUESD Board Meeting 06.24.2026
6/20/2026 Capitola Districting Outreach Meeting
Capitola City Council 06/11/2026
SUESD Board Meeting 06.10.2026
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