How state propositions on the ballot could affect Santa Cruz County

Construction crews work on a housing development on Pacific Avenue in August 2025. (Amaya Edwards —Santa Cruz Local/CatchLight Local file) SANTA CRUZ COUNTY California ballots have 14 voter propositions, many of which could have significant direct or indirect impacts on Santa Cruz County.  Santa Cruz Local identified three measures with particularly strong local effects on taxes, development and health care. For a more detailed non-partisan state voter guide, visit CalMatters’ 2026 voter guide.  For more details about Santa Cruz County measures and races, see our election guide. Prop 43 could stymie Metro tax What it is Prop 43 would raise the voter-approval threshold for some local taxes to two-thirds majority. Currently, a local “special tax” set aside for a specific use requires more than 50% approval if it is placed on the ballot by citizens.  Proponents argue that Prop 43 would close a legal loophole established by an earlier court ruling and protect the original intention of C