Santa Cruz County's very own director of public works, Matt Machado, joins us for a candid conversation that peels back the layers on the scenic yet challenging landscape of local real estate and infrastructure. As Matt shares his transition from Stanislaus County to our breezy Santa Cruz shores, we get an insider's look at the policy shifts and government enhancements he's championing. Our chat navigates through the quirky traits of our community and zeros in on the nitty-gritty of fostering impactful changes in housing and transportation.

Strap yourself in for an eye-opening cruise along Santa Cruz's winding roads, where you'll learn about the delicate dance of county and city services amidst land use conundrums and financial quagmires. It's a rollercoaster ride through property tax puzzles, the need for septic system overhauls, and the harsh reality of natural disaster impacts, all narrated with Matt's refreshingly straightforward take. Plus, you won't want to miss our robust discussion on the latest efforts in construction and how even small victories can pave the way for a smoother future.

As we wrap up our journey, we don't shy away from the personal touch—sharing stories from the front lines of navigating the county permit process and how to stand your ground when it comes to public works and county inspectors. We highlight the collective push for streamlined governance and celebrate the small yet significant strides being made in public transit and permit processes. Dive into the heart of community dialogue, where we emphasize the power of connection and the transformation that can come from joining forces to create a more connected and well-managed Santa Cruz.