BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KERO) \u2014 Another increase to California\u2019s minimum wage took effect Thursday, bringing a mix of relief and anxiety to Kern County.<\/p>\n
For workers, the pay bump offers a little more breathing room \u2014 help with groceries, gas, or rent that keeps creeping higher. For business owners, it\u2019s another financial hit, forcing tough decisions about staffing, prices, and long-term survival.<\/p>\n
World Records, a Bakersfield staple for vinyl collectors and live music fans, has been part of the community since 1982. Owner Patrick Evans says the store has weathered decades of change, but today\u2019s economy has made things especially challenging.<\/p>\n
\u201cMusic is really personal to them,\u201d Evans said. \u201cSo it\u2019s even more special when they\u2019re holding that record.\u201d<\/p>\n
Evans says foot traffic isn\u2019t what it used to be. Still, he sees potential upside in the state\u2019s latest minimum wage increase, which raises hourly pay from $16.50 to $16.90 in 2026 as part of an inflation adjustment.<\/p>\n
\u201cI think people who get an increased wage are more likely to shop local,\u201d Evans said.<\/p>\n
Just down the road, Rosemary\u2019s Family Creamery has been serving homemade ice cream and comfort food since 1984. Owner Roseanne Brandon says while she understands the intention behind wage increases, she worries about how they impact small businesses like hers.<\/p>\n
\u201cMy thoughts are that minimum wage is supposed to be for a brand-new worker \u2014 learning how to work, learning work ethic, just getting their start,\u201d Brandon said. \u201cI don\u2019t believe minimum wage was intended to be a living wage.\u201d<\/p>\n
California has steadily raised its minimum wage over the past decade. The latest adjustment was calculated in August by the Department of Finance as part of the annual review required by state law.<\/p>\n
For workers like Fernando Martinez, who\u2019s been on the job for about a year, the increase is welcome news.<\/p>\n
\u201cEverything\u2019s good,\u201d Martinez said. \u201cIt\u2019s the greatest part of life. I just got a raise.\u201d<\/p>\n
As the debate over wages continues, both workers and business owners share a common goal \u2014 keeping Bakersfield\u2019s economy strong and local businesses alive.<\/p>\n
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