FRESNO, CA (KMJ) In one of the most closely watched local votes on Tuesday was that of Measures S and D.
The dueling road tax proposals were the subject of heated debate for weeks on our airwaves.
Measure S appears to have failed while Measure D looks like a clear winner after the first vote dump Tuesday night.
MEASURE S: Transportation improvement act NO 53.53%, YES 46.47%
MEASURE D: City of Fresno transactions and use tax YES 57.68%, NO 42.32%
The controversial measure S would have established a half-cent sales tax for 30 years to fund transportation projects throughout Fresno County. Supporters, including Ashley Swearengin’s Central Valley Community Foundation, argued the plan would help pay for road repairs, improve local infrastructure, and provide funding for public transit services across the region. They warned that failing to replace existing transportation funding could lead to deteriorating roads and reduced transit options in the years ahead.
Vocal opponents like Garry Bredefeld and Brooke Ashjian, however, contended the proposal needs more work before voters commit to a tax expected to generate billions of dollars over three decades. Critics pointed to lingering concerns about priorities, spending allocations, and whether county leaders should return to the negotiating table before asking voters for long-term approval.
As a backup plan for the potential failure of Swearengin’s proposal, Mayor Jerry Dyer got Measure D on the November ballot, which appears headed to victory. This tax establishes a 0.5% city sales tax to generate an estimated $65 million annually for general city services, lasting for 10 years or until the county adopts a transportation sales tax of an equal or higher rate that benefits the city, whichever occurs first.
