In an effort to improve the convenience and access of governmental services for Santa Cruz County residents, the Board of Supervisors unanimously voted to implement blockchain technology. Blockchain technology provides a tamper-proof and transparent record of transactions, leading to improved trust and efficiency in government services. Santa Cruz County is the latest local government to adopt blockchain technology for public records and services.

The digital wallet project began to take shape in April 2022 when the Santa Cruz Board of Supervisors collaborated with HUMBL, an infrastructure provider, to begin a pilot program. The white-label digital wallet will be powered by HUMBL and will launch a three-stage pilot program starting in July 2023. The pilot program will allow beta testers, such as mobile users seeking access to government services like bicycle registration and RV parking registration, to use the digital wallet. Other potential pilots include registration of park facilities, tracking volunteer hours, over-the-counter building permit distribution, and pet licensing.

The value of digitizing paper documents, records, and services is an essential step for the convenience of Santa Cruz County residents and improving equity and access for the community. Zach Friend, a Santa Cruz County Supervisor involved in the situation, stated that the move to digitization is crucial to keep up with technological advancements and the needs of the community.

Upon successful completion of the pilot program, the county plans to provide a formal report and rollout plan by no later than September 2023. During the pilot period, local officials will assess if users trust the underlying technology and understand what is happening “under the hood.”

Blockchain technology has the potential to reduce costs associated with traditional paper-based systems and the time-consuming manual processes that go along with them. Furthermore, it can provide secure access to information and services, thus improving equity and access for all members of the community.

Potential Benefits of Implementing Blockchain Technology in Santa Cruz County

Improved Transparency and Efficiency

Blockchain technology provides a tamper-proof and transparent record of transactions, leading to improved trust and efficiency in government services. By using blockchain technology, Santa Cruz County can create a transparent and immutable record of transactions, eliminating the need for traditional paper-based systems and the time-consuming manual processes that go along with them. This would lead to greater efficiency and transparency in government services.

Cost Reductions

Blockchain technology has the potential to reduce costs associated with traditional paper-based systems. By eliminating the need for paper records and manual processes, governments can reduce their operating costs. Moreover, it can help save money by reducing the number of employees required to manage and maintain records and services.

Improved Equity and Access

Blockchain technology can provide secure access to information and services, thus improving equity and access for all members of the community. This would enable individuals who may not have access to traditional paper-based systems to easily access government services.