Capitola Mayor Yvette Brooks announced her resignation on Friday, effective January 13. She has accepted the Chief Executive Officer position for United Way of Santa Cruz County.
“It has truly been an honor serving on the City Council for the past six years,” the mayor said in a news release. “I ran on a platform of supporting our community, focusing on the well-being of all residents and the youth living here. Now, I have the opportunity to serve the entire County of Santa Cruz, embracing United Way’s mission to ignite our community to give, advocate, and volunteer so that our youth succeed in school and life, our residents are healthy, and our families are financially independent. While it is an extremely difficult decision to step down from the council, I recognize the best way to contribute to Capitola and this county I love is to dedicate all of my time and efforts to the United Way role.”
Brooks is currently serving her second term on the council and is in her second rotation as mayor. She is the city’s first Latina mayor and will be the first Latina to serve as United Way of Santa Cruz County’s CEO. Brooks also serves as Vice President of the Executive Board of Directors for the League of Cities and is Vice Chair of the Central Coast Community Energy Policy.
“Mayor Brooks’ leadership has left a lasting impact on the Capitola community, and her dedication to service will undoubtedly benefit the broader Santa Cruz County in her new capacity,” said City Manager Jamie Goldstein.
Brooks will attend her last council meeting on Thursday, January 9. At the meeting, city leaders will discuss whether to fill her seat by appointment or special election.