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Santa Cruz County Maintains Position as Most Expensive Rental Market in the U.S.

Santa Cruz County Maintains Position as Most Expensive Rental Market in the U.S.

Santa Cruz County has been named the most expensive rental market in the United States for the fourth consecutive year, according to the National Low Income Housing Coalition's 'Out of Reach' report. The report highlights that a full-time worker in the county must earn $81.04 per hour to afford a non-luxury rental home without spending more than 30% of their income on housing. This figure is significantly higher than the state minimum wage of $16.90, necessitating multiple jobs for many residents. The fair market rent for a two-bedroom unit in Santa Cruz County is $4,214, surpassing the San Francisco metro area's $3,604. Housing advocates and policymakers attribute the high costs to limited housing development and a 'culture of no' that hinders new construction.

Florida residents face massive gap in rental affordability

Florida residents face massive gap in rental affordability

Rental homes are out of reach for "millions" — in Florida alone, you'd have to work 91 hours per week to afford a one-bedroom at minimum wage.

Maine Open Farm Day to Showcase Over 80 Farms Across 15 Counties

Maine Open Farm Day to Showcase Over 80 Farms Across 15 Counties

The 37th annual Maine Open Farm Day is set to take place on Sunday, July 26, 2026, offering a unique opportunity for visitors to explore the state's diverse agricultural landscape. Hosted by Real Maine, the event will feature more than 80 farms across 15 counties, allowing attendees to experience firsthand the variety of agricultural practices in Maine. From Aroostook County's expansive croplands to the orchards and tree farms of Southern Maine, the event promises a comprehensive look at the state's farming community. Visitors will have the chance to engage in guided tours, meet farmers and farm animals, and participate in educational activities. The event is designed to connect people with the local agricultural community, showcasing the unique products and practices that define Maine's farming industry.

Santa Cruz Affordable Housing: The Complex Math Behind Market-Rate and Subsidized Units

Santa Cruz Affordable Housing: The Complex Math Behind Market-Rate and Subsidized Units

In Santa Cruz, the issue of affordable housing is being examined through the lens of economic formulas and market dynamics. The city employs a 30% rule to define affordable housing, based on median income levels. Developments like RiverRow and Anton Pacific illustrate the coexistence of market-rate and deed-restricted units within the same buildings. While some units are rented at market rates, others are capped to remain affordable. This dual approach aims to address the housing crisis by providing options for both high earners and those in need of affordable housing.

Troy Jackson Leads Susan Collins in Tight Maine Senate Race, New Poll Shows

Troy Jackson Leads Susan Collins in Tight Maine Senate Race, New Poll Shows

A recent poll conducted by the University of New Hampshire Survey Center indicates that Troy Jackson, a former lawmaker and president of the Maine Senate, holds a slight lead over incumbent U.S. Senator Susan Collins in the upcoming Senate race. The poll, which surveyed 1,236 Maine residents between July 15 and July 20, shows Jackson with 49% support compared to Collins' 46%, with a margin of error of +/- 2.8%. Jackson is expected to secure the Democratic nomination following the withdrawal of Graham Platner, who dropped out due to allegations of sexual assault. The poll also highlights Jackson's popularity among Democrats, with 51% of primary voters supporting him over other candidates.

DHS Reports Record Immigration Arrests Amid Calls for Transparency

DHS Reports Record Immigration Arrests Amid Calls for Transparency

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has released new data indicating a significant increase in immigration enforcement activities within the United States. The data, published on July 20, 2026, reveals that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrests have reached record levels under Secretary Markwayne Mullin. This increase follows a period of heightened scrutiny and criticism of the agency, particularly after fatal shootings in Texas and Maine brought ICE's operations into the national spotlight. The data shows a notable rise in the number of detainees without criminal records, which now constitute 37% of the detained population, up from 6% in January 2025. The release of this data comes after a three-month delay, the longest in recent history, raising concerns about transparency and accountability in immigration enforcement.

Maine Hot Sauce Maker Grows Sales by Reducing Retail Presence

Maine Hot Sauce Maker Grows Sales by Reducing Retail Presence

Maine Hot Sauce Maker Grows Sales by Reducing Retail Presence

Maine Reports Third Case of Rare Powassan Virus in 2026

Maine Reports Third Case of Rare Powassan Virus in 2026

The Maine Center for Disease Control has confirmed a third case of the rare Powassan virus in the state this year, with an adult in Lincoln County testing positive. This follows previous cases in York and Penobscot counties. Additionally, a wild bird in Cumberland County tested positive for West Nile virus, marking the first case of this virus in Maine for the year. Powassan virus, transmitted by ticks, is the only endemic arbovirus in Maine, while other viruses like West Nile are spread by mosquitoes. The virus can impact the brain and is transmitted more quickly than Lyme disease. Researchers are studying how ticks carrying the virus survive Maine's harsh winters.

Massachusetts State Senate Proposes Elimination of Single-Family Zoning to Boost Affordable Housing

Massachusetts State Senate Proposes Elimination of Single-Family Zoning to Boost Affordable Housing

The Massachusetts State Senate is considering a proposal to eliminate single-family zoning in an effort to increase the availability of affordable housing. This legislative move, known as upzoning, aims to allow for more diverse housing options by permitting multi-family units in areas currently restricted to single-family homes. The proposal is part of a broader strategy to address the state's housing crisis by increasing density and making better use of existing land. The initiative is expected to face both support and opposition from various stakeholders, including local governments, developers, and residents.

Senators Demand ICE Accountability Following Fatal Shootings in Maine and Houston

Senators Demand ICE Accountability Following Fatal Shootings in Maine and Houston

A group of U.S. senators, led by Independent Senator Angus King, is demanding answers from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) following two fatal shootings involving ICE officers in Maine and Houston. The senators are calling for the implementation of body cameras for all ICE officers and a review of the agency's vetting practices for new recruits. The demand comes after reports of violent behavior by an ICE officer involved in the Maine shooting, raising concerns about the agency's oversight and accountability. The senators' letter to the Department of Homeland Security highlights the need for transparency and reform within ICE.

Giant metal roosters spread autism acceptance in Maine after town zoning spat

Giant metal roosters spread autism acceptance in Maine after town zoning spat

Giant metal roosters are popping up on lawns in and around a coastal Maine community and as far away as New Zealand in support of a 6-year-old autistic girl and her love of the colorful creations

DHS Secretary Mullin Faces Scrutiny Over Traffic Stop Policy Amid Recent Shootings

DHS Secretary Mullin Faces Scrutiny Over Traffic Stop Policy Amid Recent Shootings

Department of Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin is under scrutiny following the recent shootings of two men by immigration agents during traffic stops in Texas and Maine. Mullin had initially announced a temporary suspension of traffic stops after discussions with Senator Susan Collins, but President Trump countermanded this decision, emphasizing the importance of traffic stops as a crime-fighting tool. The incidents have raised concerns about the training and tactics of immigration officers, particularly regarding vehicle stops, which are inherently risky and have led to fatalities.