BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KERO) \u2014 Kern County voters will be asked to approve a small sales tax increase to help fund the expansion of CALM Zoo.<\/p>\n
Measure Z calls for a sales tax increase of one-eighth of a percent throughout Kern County, costing shoppers one penny for every $8 they spend. The money would help fund the zoo’s long-term master plan, including expanded animal habitats, new exhibits, and improvements to existing facilities.<\/p>\n
For more than four decades, CALM Zoo has been a place for Kern County families to learn about wildlife. Jim Damian, chairperson of Yes on Measure Z, said the zoo needs additional funding to improve its facilities and expand.<\/p>\n
“Calm Zoo is a treasured community asset. People love going there. 100,000 people approximately every year go to Calm Zoo to enjoy, to recreate, to experience that,” Jim Damian said.<\/p>\n
He said the tax increase is an investment worth making.<\/p>\n
“I’m a business guy, and we know when you invest in great assets there is a return on that investment. CALM Zoo has proven under the stewardship of KCSOS for 30 years that it’s a great investment,” Damian said.<\/p>\n
Not everyone agrees the expansion justifies a tax increase. Kern County Republican Mark Bigger opposes the measure.<\/p>\n
“Measure Z imposes a permanent tax increase on Kern County families and businesses to fund a nonessential government service. With families already struggling with rising costs, we should demand fiscal responsibility, not higher taxes to pay for running a zoo! Keep Kern County affordable and vote NO on Measure Z!” Bigger said.<\/p>\n
Voters will decide on Measure Z in the general election on Nov. 3.<\/p>\n
This story was reported on-air by a journalist and has been converted to this platform with the assistance of AI. Our editorial team verifies all reporting on all platforms for fairness and accuracy.<\/p>\n
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