Downtown Commission

Mission

The Downtown Commission advises Council on all matters pertaining to the maintenance and management of Parking District No. 1 and the Central Business and Improvement District. It develops long-range plans and implementation programs to provide downtown public parking. The Commission may study traffic problems in the Districts. The Commission makes recommendations regarding the allocation of funds derived from revenues collected on behalf of these Districts. The Commission evaluates public and private activities in the Districts and recommends policies and programs to preserve, enhance, and advance the viability and attractiveness of the downtown. The Commission may also perform other functions and duties as directed by Council or prescribed or authorized by any City ordinance.

The Commission was formed from the consolidation of two former City Council advisory bodies. One advisory body was established to manage the off-street public parking in the Parking District. The second advisory body was established to promote the Central Business District. The Downtown Commission united these two advisory bodies.

Meetings

Downtown Commission meetings are normally held on the fourth Thursday of the month, in January, March, May, July, September and November at 8:30 a.m. in the City Council Chambers located at 809 Center Street, Santa Cruz, CA.

Public comment can be submitted via email at downtowncommission@santacruzca.gov by noon on the meeting date, or live via phone during a meeting.

2025 Meeting Schedule

  • Jan 23
  • March 27
  • May 22
  • July 24
  • Sept 25
  • Nov 20 (Date changed due to holiday)

Members

The Commission consists of seven members who are appointed by the City Council. For additional details of dates of appointments and expirations, please review the advisory board roster.

Additional Information

Accessibility of all online Advisory Body agenda packets, minutes and audio files is now available from any Advisory Body webpage to enable easier public access to posted meeting information.

Staff Contact

Gaven Hussey
809 Center Street, Room 201
Santa Cruz, CA. 95060
 
Should you have questions, please contact City Clerk Administrator Bonnie Bush at (831) 420-5035.
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