BAKERFIELD, Calif. (KBAK/KBFX) Delano voters will soon decide the fate of Measure B, which seeks to maintain the existing 8.25% sales tax.
The measure, set for a vote on Nov. 4, would repeal the expiration date of the tax initially approved in 2007 as Measure I.
Delano voters to decide on Measure B sales tax extension Nov. 4 (KBAK/KBFX){p}{/p}
This tax, which was set to expire on March 31, 2028, has generated significant revenue for the community, bringing in $8.5 million last year alone, according to Delano Mayor Liz Morris.
The funds from the tax have been allocated to essential services such as police and fire departments, streets, parks and recreation, and other general fund services.
Mayor Morris highlighted the impact of the tax, stating, “It has helped tremendously with our parks and recs department. Public safety – we bought cameras or license readers, you know, to try to prevent crime in our city.”
Delano voters to decide on Measure B sales tax extension Nov. 4 (KBAK/KBFX){p}{/p}
She also noted that the tax revenue has facilitated the repair of approximately 50 miles of roadwork in Delano.
Additionally, the measure’s funds contributed to the construction of a new aquatic center, supplementing a grant that was insufficient to cover the entire cost.
Mayor Morris emphasized the economic growth spurred by the increased revenue, saying, “Everyone can see that improvement in the last eighteen years that I’ve been here. Walmart wasn’t there. You can see tremendous growth, and now we’re getting a Target, you know, that’s coming in.”
Delano voters to decide on Measure B sales tax extension Nov. 4 (KBAK/KBFX){p}{/p}
The decision on Measure B will determine whether these benefits continue beyond the original expiration date.