[Opinion] Bakersfield debates the effectiveness of Measure N funding for public safety and homelessness

COMMUNITY OPINION: Measure W betrayed by fiscal mismanagement by city leaders

This community opinion was contributed by the Hollister Police Officers Association. The opinions expressed do not necessarily represent BenitoLink or other affiliated contributors. Lea este artículo en español aquí. In 2016, the residents of Hollister voted decisively in favor of Measure W, a one-cent sales tax extension originally passed as Measure E in 2012. At the time, city leaders made a clear and convincing promise: that these funds—estim…

Community Voices: We've kept our promise: We put Measure N funds to work

Measure N was born out of necessity. In 2018, after years of fiscal belt-tightening, declining revenue, and growing demands for city services, Bakersfield voters were asked to do something bold: reinvest in ourselves. We knew we had to address immediate…

Bakersfield debates the effectiveness of Measure N funding for public safety and homelessness

Debate has sparked within the City of Bakersfield regarding the citys allocation of Measure N funds. Bakersfield City Council debates the allocation of Measure N funds, originally intended for public safety and economic development. Measure N, a 1% sales tax, was approved by voters in 2018, but some officials claim funds aren't used as promised. City Manager Christian Clegg defends the spending, stating $70 million of the $97 million budget is a…