Home | The Pajaronian | Watsonville, CA

Santa Cruz County on Tuesday formally opposed a federal proposal that could allow new offshore oil and gas leasing off the California coast. The Board...

Water main work heads down Union Street

Local News

A major water main replacement project in Watsonville is now moving along Union Street as part of the ongoing citywide Water Main Replacement Program. The...

Supervisors approve draft BESS ordinance

Local News

The Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday moved forward with proposed rules aimed at regulating large-scale battery energy storage systems, which if...

City Council approves draft parking ordinance

Local News

The Watsonville City Council on Tuesday approved an ordinance that largely prohibits oversized vehicles from parking on city streets, while adding several exceptions at...

Cabrillo board approves new $306K president contract

Local News

The Cabrillo College Board of Trustees on Tuesday approved a contract for Jenn Capps to be its new President and Superintendent. Capps’ 3 1/2-year contract—which...

CRIME, FIRE & COURTS

Teen arrested after chase

January 9, 2026

A routine traffic stop turned into a chase late Tuesday night that ended with the arrest of a 17-year-old suspected gang member and the...

Photo story: Pickup goes off-road

January 9, 2026

North Monterey County Fire officials join American Medical Response paramedics in treating the male driver of a pickup who veered off of Hall Road...

Mountain lion seen on Main Street

January 9, 2026

Watsonville police warned Wednesday that a mountain lion was seen behind 1075 Main Street heading toward Harkins Slough Road. The department said that residents should...

Photo story: Floodwaters cover Elkhorn Road

January 4, 2026

After their truck stalled in this flooded section of Elkhorn Road Saturday these men wait for help. Scores of motorists were turned away at...

OPINION

New leadership, shared priorities: Investing in the future of public safety

January 16, 2026

As we begin a new year, I want to reflect on the direction of public safety in Watsonville and the leadership helping guide that work forward. Our Police and Fire Departments are entering this next chapter with experienced leaders who bring strong values, proven track records, and a deep commitment...