Natalie Hanson

Natalie Hanson is a freelance reporter for San José Spotlight. She also writes for Marin Independent Journal and has experience reporting on local city government, politics, housing and homelessness, education and environment/fire at Chico Enterprise-Record.

Natalie’s reporting has been published in ChicoSol News, Ethnic Media Services, NPR’s Next Generation Radio, The Mercury News and The Washington Post. She graduated from California State University Chico with degrees in journalism and international relations, and spent three years as reporter and later editor-in-chief at the student-run publication The Orion. She is passionate about community journalism and bringing new perspectives to light, with a passion for holding powerful interests accountable.

Santa Clara CountyState
An aerial view of downtown San Jose
January 1, 2024January 5, 2024by

New laws that affect Silicon Valley in 2024

California residents can expect a variety of new laws to take effect in 2024, after Gov. Gavin Newsom signed hundreds of bills to tackle the state’s most pressing issues. These bills range from updates to mental health services and housing to worker protections to safe drinking water, and Silicon Valley lawmakers championed many of them....

EconomySanta Clara
Santa Clara reserves fall short of revenue needs
December 21, 2023December 26, 2023by

Santa Clara reserves fall short of revenue needs

Santa Clara’s budget deficit has shrunk dramatically, but city officials warn that new tax strategies are necessary to build up long-suffering coffers. City officials told the Santa Clara City Council this month the $27 million deficit has dropped to about $9 million. But to maintain this downward trend, city employees recommended some adjustments to the...

DevelopmentSanta Clara
Through a grassroots effort, Santa Clara is looking to revitalize its downtown.
December 7, 2023December 11, 2023by

Santa Clara council approves plan to revive downtown

Santa Clara is planning a major facelift of its five-acre downtown after years of neglect, thanks to a determined group of residents. The Santa Clara City Council on Tuesday unanimously approved rezoning for a new downtown plan and environmental impact report. Mayor Lisa Gillmor recused herself. The plan revitalizes the downtown grid, which can accommodate...

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