My Bio
Joy is an organizer, educator, artist, and public service worker on the front lines of Santa Cruz’s housing and human service systems.
She serves as an Operations Manager and Lead Monitor for local shelter programs, overseeing staff, client services, safety, and day-to-day operations that keep people cared for and supported.
Joy previously earned endorsements from SEIU Local 521, the Monterey Bay Central Labor Council, IBEW Local 234, and the California Nurses Association.
Her public service includes co-founding Santa Cruz Cares and Sanitation for the People — grassroots initiatives delivering compassionate, practical responses to homelessness and public health needs.
She is also a certified Community Mediator through the Conflict Resolution Center of Santa Cruz County.
Joy is running for Mayor to refocus City Hall on the essentials:
• Keeping people housed
• Supporting good local jobs
• Protecting vital public services
• Making Santa Cruz affordable for the people who live and work here
She supports housing stability, responsible public investment, strong labor standards, and transparent local government that listens to residents and workers alike.
Joy believes democracy works best from the bottom up. She’s working to build a more inclusive, livable Santa Cruz — with more joy for all of us.
My Key Issues
Housing
Strong renter protections More “Yes” locations for temporary and permanent housing Affordable homes near schools, parks, and transit Housing accessible for people with disabilities Progressive revenue tools like a Property Transfer Tax
Government Transparency
Publicly financed campaigns Ranked Choice Voting Fund neighborhood precinct assemblies Constituent-led planning and permitting
Economic Development
Labor Unwavering support for workers and unions More city staff delivering public services Higher wages and safer working conditions Environment Community-led climate action Protect and expand public ownership of land and assets Public infrastructure for public good Public transit as a foundation for equity
Send Me a Message
Have questions or suggestions? I would love to hear from you!