Local Politics · Fresno County
Fresno County voters will decide on Nov. 3 whether to approve Measure S, a half-cent transportation sales tax that would replace the expiring Measure C for 30 years starting July 1, 2027, projecting roughly $7.4 billion in revenue. Unlike prior Measure C renewals requiring a two-thirds vote, Measure S needs only a simple majority because it was placed on the ballot as a citizens' initiative with verified petition signatures. The measure prioritizes neighborhood road repair (targeting a Pavement Condition Index of 70), school-zone safety projects, and public transit funding, with annual independent audits by a citizen oversight committee barring elected officials. If Measure S fails, the half-cent tax ends June 30, 2027, reducing sales tax rates unless another measure replaces it.
Local Politics · Fresno, CA
The Fresno City Council voted 6-1 on Thursday to postpone initiating a public process for water and sewage rate increases until after the November midterm election, citing uncertainty over local ballot measures Measure S (county transportation) and Measure D (city general tax). The proposed changes would add about $1.77 per month to a typical resident's water bill while reducing sewage costs by roughly $1; rates have not increased in nearly a decade. Councilmember Nick Richardson cast the lone dissenting vote, urging colleagues to act now rather than risk a 16-year gap. Separately, the council voted to oppose Fresno County's exploration of privatizing the local library system.
Local Politics · Fresno County
A comprehensive guide to the November 2026 ballot for Fresno County voters covers local measures including a replacement for Measure C called Better Roads, Safe Streets—though as of Aug. 10 it had not yet appeared on the ballot amid a promised legal challenge by county supervisors—as well as tax measures in Fresno, Orange Cove, Coalinga, and the Sierra Kings Health Care District. The guide lists contested races across city councils, state legislative districts, congressional seats, Superior Court judgeships, school boards, community college districts, and special districts. Voters must register by Oct. 19 to participate. Several incumbents are running for other offices, creating open seats in Fresno City Council, county supervisor, and multiple school board races.
Education · Fresno County
California Smarter Balanced Assessment scores released Thursday show Fresno County's overall English proficiency at 48% and math at 36% for the 2025-26 school year, continuing annual gains of at least 2% since 2024. Golden Plains Unified in Tranquility improved math proficiency by 6% in one year despite serving a student body that is 95% economically disadvantaged and 49% English Learners. Fresno Unified reached 40% ELA and 29% math proficiency, exceeding pre-COVID performance for the first time and ranking 8th in ELA among 27 comparable districts. Clovis, Central, and Sanger Unified also posted modest improvements. Golden Plains Superintendent Felipe Piedra credited community involvement and rigorous teaching but noted enrollment has fallen more than 20% due to water insecurity and a dry job market, prompting consideration of school consolidation.
