Special Meeting of the Board of Supervisors - 2026-03-23
Meeting Intelligence Preview
Meeting Summary
The Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors held a special meeting on March 23, 2026, primarily focused on litigation matters related to embezzlement by former county treasurer Elizabeth Gutfar. The board tabled a proposed settlement agreement with Rio Rico Medical and Fire District and Nogales Suburban Fire District while attorneys continue negotiations. The board unanimously approved authorization to pursue appeals and further legal action in both the Auditor General case and the receivership case against Gutfar.
Key Decisions (2)
Settlement Agreement with Fire Districts - Gutfar Embezzlement
Proposed settlement agreement with Rio Rico Medical and Fire District, Nogales Suburban Fire District, and potential fire districts to resolve legal matters related to Gutfar embezzlement litigation was tabled. Attorneys for both entities are currently in negotiations.
Authorization for Legal Action in Gutfar Embezzlement Cases
Board authorized and approved legal action related to Gutfar embezzlement litigation, including special action and appeal of recent court decisions in litigation against the Auditor General. This covers both the Auditor General case and the receivership case against Ms. Gutfar. The board acknowledged a recent summary ruling decided on a technicality after more than a year of litigation.