Issue Archive
Older, resolved, or archived tracked issues. Sorted by most recent activity first.
Environmental Preservation vs. Development — Protecting Open Space • Featured
active • Parks & green space
Last activity: Apr 30, 2026
Monte Sereno’s identity is closely tied to its natural landscape — mature trees, hillsides, and open space — but that environment is under constant pressure. Development proposals, even at small scale, can raise concerns about tree removal,…
Infrastructure and Service Dependence — A Small City in a Regional System • Featured
active • Governance
Last activity: Apr 30, 2026
Monte Sereno operates with a minimal municipal footprint, relying heavily on Santa Clara County and neighboring cities for essential services — from policing and fire protection to roads and public health. That structure keeps the city lean…
Wildfire Risk — Living on the Edge of the Interface • Featured
active • Environment
Last activity: Apr 30, 2026
Situated in the wildland-urban interface at the base of the Santa Cruz Mountains, Monte Sereno faces elevated wildfire risk. Dense vegetation, narrow hillside roads, and limited evacuation routes compound the danger — especially as climate …
Housing Pressure vs. Rural Character — A City at a Crossroads • Featured
active • Housing Affordability
Last activity: Apr 30, 2026
Monte Sereno has long defined itself by low-density zoning, large lots, and a quiet, semi-rural identity — but state housing mandates are forcing change. Like every city in California, Monte Sereno must plan for additional housing under the…
Transportation & Transit Future (VTA) • Featured
active • Transit
Last activity: Apr 25, 2026
The Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA) is navigating a dual mandate — running a regional transit system while developing affordable housing on underutilized land near stations. Ten VTA projects currently in active development…
Federal Funding Threats to County Services • Featured
active • Budget priorities
Last activity: Apr 25, 2026
The county is confronting $70 million in anticipated lost federal funding it will need to backfill, with the Office of Supportive Housing facing the largest losses of $29 million. Federal Medi-Cal cuts are driving multiple departmental shor…
Mental Health Services Budget Crisis • Featured
active • Mental health
Last activity: Apr 25, 2026
The Santa Clara County Behavioral Health Services Department is facing a $100 million deficit for fiscal year 2026–27, driven by federal Medi-Cal cuts triggered by H.R. 1, changes in state funding, the end of one-time COVID-19 dollars, and …