Civil Municipal Magazine - Nov 2023

150 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 4, ISSUE 11 Plans are in place to upgrade the facility and establish a health district, ensuring residents have access to quality medical care. Mendez emphasizes Watsonville’s commitment to its employees and effective governance, highlighting its collaboration with Santa Cruz County to upgrade the South County facilities. This initiative aims to reduce the daily commute for numerous county employees, easing the traffic on State Highway One. Mendez proudly mentions the city’s extensive services, from police and fire to utilities, with plans to reopen its landfill, minimizing waste transportation distances. With an investment nearing three- quarters of a billion dollars in various projects, including a pedestrian bridge over State Highway One, Watsonville is actively shaping a safer, interconnected, and thriving future. Watsonville’s Vision for the Future As cities evolve, they often grapple with their identity, balancing the weight of their history with the promise of their future. With its multifaceted culture, innovation, and resilience, Watsonville is no exception. The city stands at a pivotal juncture, poised to embrace the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Mendez emphasizes, “It’s a community ready to take its next step. We are the third largest city on the Central Coast. There’s an incredible work