Class 39 Housing & Economics Day

Leadership Santa Cruz County Explores Critical Community Challenges

On October 3rd, the Class 39 cohort gathered for Housing & Economics Day to examine how shifts in housing and economics are reshaping our region. The day began with an exploration of the history of housing and economic policy in Santa Cruz County, followed by walking tours of downtown development projects and discussions on urban activation and expansion plans.

Participants engaged in meaningful conversations about housing density, the future of development in the area, and the balance between state mandates and local control over land use. The afternoon featured a neighborhood design exercise and tours highlighting the region's economic transition from the 20th to 21st century - including discussions on NAFTA's impact on local canneries and greenhouses, and the significant job losses that followed.

Special thanks to our Platinum Sponsor, Redtree Partners, and to our generous sponsors and hosts who made this comprehensive day possible: Santa Cruz Community Credit Union, Santa Cruz Warriors, Karon Properties, William Ow, and Matthew Thompson of Thacher & Thompson Architects.