Chamber of Commerce, Firefighters Endorse New $1.4 Billion Fresno State Sales Tax

By Edward Smith

Published 1 year ago on

January 30, 2024

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Saying it recognizes the need for investment into Fresno State, the Fresno Chamber of Commerce threw its support for the tax measure funding maintenance and new construction at the university, Measure E.

“Our Board of Directors voted overwhelmingly in support of Measure E because they understand the benefits that come from having a thriving University in our City,” said Scott Miller, president and CEO of the chamber. “It is one of our largest economic drivers and a key asset to attracting businesses, and driving job creation in our region.”

Chamber Says Measure E Would Provide Labor Force

The .25% sales tax in Fresno County would generate about $63 million annually over the 25-year lifespan of the measure, totaling roughly $1.4 billion. The proposal will appear on the March 5 primary ballot. As the measure was a voter-sponsored initiative, it needs 50% plus one to pass.

Proponents of the measure say the money would go to fund a new nursing and engineering building and upgrade athletic facilities, as well as address hundreds of millions of dollars of deferred maintenance.

Blair Smittcamp-Martin, marketing manager for Wawona Frozen Foods, said the measure would advance the workforce throughout the region.

“Fresno State has been a cornerstone of our community for decades, producing graduates who go on to be leaders in our community, and expanding the pipeline of skilled professionals that local businesses depend on,” Smittcamp-Martin said.

Endorsements Coming at the Right Time: Orman

Tim Orman, general consultant for the Measure E campaign, said more people are seeing the investment Measure E could make in the labor force.

The Fresno Firefighters IAFF Local 202 last week also endorsed the tax measure. The Fresno Madera Kings Tulare Building Trades Council and the Kerman City Council also threw their support behind Measure E.

“Measure E is picking up tremendously at exactly the right time,” Orman said. “More and more people are recognizing that Measure E is an investment in our most valuable resource — the people of Fresno County.”

The proposed project list for Fresno State from the Yes on Measure E Committee.

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Edward Smith,

Multimedia Journalist

Edward Smith began reporting for GV Wire in May 2023. His reporting career began at Fresno City College, graduating with an associate degree in journalism. After leaving school he spent the next six years with The Business Journal, doing research for the publication as well as covering the restaurant industry. Soon after, he took on real estate and agriculture beats, winning multiple awards at the local, state and national level. You can contact Edward at 559-440-8372 or at Edward.Smith@gvwire.com.