Politics

In 2014, Hollister became what actor Mark Ruffalo called “ground zero” in California for the fierce debate over fracking. Ruffalo's tweet sent Oct. 14—in which he made the local fracking reference—underscored the broad reach of the debate in San Benito County over Measure J.

San Juan Bautista officials are asking for relief at local restaurants, schools and daycare centers from a ban against drinking tap water following test results showing the city's groundwater supply is well below the maximum nitrate standard.

San Juan council members Tuesday unanimously elected Councilman Robert Lund as mayor and Councilman Rick Edge as vice mayor. Lund succeeds former Mayor Andy Moore, who did not run for reelection as a council member.

With all the disagreement at the county board meeting Tuesday, officials could have used some yoga to ease their tensions.

Fire Chief Mike O’Connor told county board members plans are moving ahead on a Fire Station No. 3 near the airport, while a supervisor in the same discussion criticized lacking communication from the city during a recent investigation of the chief.

Hollister council members Monday put off a decision on the 2015 motorcycle rally as the downtown association and city continue negotiations, but one official declared there will be an event next year.

Hollister City Council members Monday approved spending $4,000 toward painting of utility boxes in an effort to stem graffiti.

Assemblyman Luis Alejo talked up potential benefits to the California economy and millions of families with a new law effective Jan. 2 allowing undocumented immigrants the ability to get driver's licenses.

Hollister City Council members Monday are set to consider spending $4,000 toward painting of utility boxes in an effort to stem graffiti.

Residents in 59 homes on the south end of Aromas can take in more than a breath of fresh air. Soon, they can take a gulp of fresh water, too.