City officials in Santa Cruz say scammers claiming to represent businesses on the Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf are soliciting donations after the building’s partial collapse.
“This is a scam,” officials said on social media on Saturday. “These actions benefit from the kindness and generosity of our community.”
The dock was closed after about 50 meters it broke off at the end on Monday when it was buffeted by waves that the National Weather Service estimated as high as 30 feet.
“All official fundraising efforts will be clearly communicated through the official channels of the City of Santa Cruz, including our website and social media pages,” officials said. “If you come across anything you think might be fundraising, please let us know.”
The collapsed section was closed due to damage from previous storms in late 2023 and early 2024.
Three people fell into the water when the collapse occurred, but no one was injured.
Local officials are faces some tough questions about the future of the structure which attracts more than two million visitors every year.
When asked about plans to rebuild the 50-metre section that was demolished during Monday’s storm, the mayor acknowledged that this remains an open question given the growing risks posed by climate change.
“We would be irresponsible if we didn’t ask the question of what is the right thing to do here,” Santa Cruz Mayor Fred Keely said. “But to say we’re just going to put it back, I honestly think it’s much riskier and more irresponsible than having a very serious conversation.”
Officials said the structural assessment of the wharf and the removal of heavy equipment that fell into the water could take several weeks to a month or more.
