A committee responsible for overseeing Fresno County’s transportation funding has recommended renewing Measure C for a duration of 30 years. This half-cent sales tax is set to expire in June 2027, and securing its renewal next year is essential for maintaining local and matching state and federal transportation funds.
During a meeting held on Thursday, 21 out of 29 committee members voted in favor of extending Measure C for 30 years, while seven members opted for a 20-year renewal. Both previous iterations of the tax, first approved in 1986 and renewed in 2006, were for 20-year terms.
Funding Priorities and Accountability
The committee previously established categories for spending, which include existing neighborhood roads, public transportation, regional connectivity, active transportation, administrative costs, and other areas. A preliminary vote indicated that approximately 52% of funds might be allocated to neighborhood roads, although the current measure designates about 65% for this purpose. A more detailed allocation plan is anticipated at the next meeting on October 2, 2023.
In addition to funding allocation discussions, the committee has proposed several recommendations to the Fresno Council of Governments (COG) aimed at enhancing accountability. Suggestions include reviewing the spending plan every ten years, ensuring transparency in fund allocation, and clarifying the process for making amendments to the spending plan. The committee is also exploring ways to diversify and recruit members for an oversight committee.
Since its inception, Measure C has generated over $2.1 billion for local projects and has leveraged an additional $8 billion in state and federal funding. For most households, this sales tax translates to approximately $4 to $8 per month, derived from everyday purchases such as clothing and dining.
Evaluating Public Transit Options
Committee members raised questions regarding the financial viability of expanding public transit options, particularly concerning light rail systems. Transportation officials provided insights, stating that the cost associated with implementing light rail in Fresno County is prohibitively high. They noted, “The likelihood of federal funding for a light rail project in Fresno County is unlikely based on the cost per mile and lack of population density to have adequate ridership.”
Officials emphasized that the challenges are magnified in rural areas, where low population density and the expense of infrastructure make light rail impractical. Instead, they proposed that bus rapid transit could serve as a more feasible solution for connecting Fresno with nearby communities, such as Kingsburg. Upgrading the city’s bus system to provide 15-minute service intervals would require an investment of nearly $1.25 billion.
Next steps involve finalizing recommendations for Measure C, which will require approval from the boards of Fresno COG and the Fresno County Transportation Authority before being presented to city councils throughout the county. The Fresno County Board of Supervisors will ultimately determine whether to place the measure on the ballot. Additionally, citizens have the option to propose an alternative to Measure C through petition signatures.
Mark Keppler, the committee facilitator, underscored the importance of grounding recommendations in reality, stating, “If you want your recommendation to be taken seriously, it has to be grounded in reality.” The Fresno COG Policy Board has approved the 38-member committee, which represents various community groups, labor organizations, and municipalities. Recent adjustments included adding 12 members from the coalition Transportation for All, which advocates for social justice in transportation.
In a change to representation, former Fresno City Councilmember Larry Westerlund has replaced Brooke Ashjian, while Gloria Hernandez has been appointed as an alternate member representing the Stop the Violence initiative. As discussions continue, the committee aims to balance effective transportation funding with community needs and interests.
