AI IN THE FUTURE
As someone who grew up in Santa Cruz and has since spent years working in the innovation-driven world of Silicon Valley, I’ve always been captivated by the interplay of peace and progress in our community.
Though our town is often seen as a sleepy coastal haven, I know firsthand that Santa Cruz is brimming with artists, innovators and revolutionary thinkers who challenge the status quo in meaningful ways.
One topic I’ve been reflecting on lately is artificial intelligence (AI) and its role in shaping the world around us. Working in Silicon Valley has given me a front-row seat to the transformative potential of AI. It’s a tool that, in my experience, holds incredible promise—not just for efficiency or innovation, but for fundamentally improving quality of life.
I’m curious how my fellow Good Times readers feel or think about it? History provides a fascinating lens through which to view rapid advancements in (artificial?) intelligence.
Consider ancient Egypt, a civilization that achieved seemingly impossible feats, like building the pyramids. Some believe these structures played a role beyond architecture, potentially providing a foundation for energy and community that supported an idyllic way of life.
Could AI be our modern-day equivalent—an opportunity to power a more connected, innovative and harmonious future? As an advocate for AI, I see it as an extension of human ingenuity rather than a threat. But like any transformative technology, it requires thoughtful adoption and a shared understanding of its possibilities.
Katie Wade | Pleasure Point
UNHAPPY WITH PROPOSED BUILDING
Our family and friends are residents of Belvedere Terrace. We are advocates of affordable housing. We are YIMBYs! But…
Our community has met several times and agrees that it is not safe to build 140 units that would be home to more than 200+ residents with only 43 parking spaces at 831 Water Street due to environmental and traffic safety concerns. The City Council agreed with us and did not approve this project on the first attempt with only one vote in favor. The only reason it passed on the second vote was legal pressure from the developer. We believe that 20 affordable units with ample living space and parking is a safer choice and fits the character of our neighborhood.
The residents of Belvedere Terrace are against the proposed changes and call for the overturn of the approval of the 831 Water Street development due to safety concerns.
Deven and Brad Stark
