Parlier Council votes to support Fresno County’s "Better Roads, Safe Streets" measure

The Parlier City Council on March 5, 2026 voted to adopt Resolution 2026‑25 expressing support for the Fresno County Better Roads, Safe Streets transportation measure, following a presentation from campaign representative Veronica Garibay.

Garibay, who identified herself as co‑executive director of Leadership Council for Justice and Accountability and a campaign representative, described the proposed measure as a continuation of the half‑cent Measure C sales tax that has funded regional transportation since 1986. She said the proposed 30‑year measure would take effect July 2027 and is estimated to generate $7.4 billion over 30 years. Under the plan Garibay described, 65% of revenue would be distributed to cities and the county (an estimated $4.8 billion of the total) for local street repairs, sidewalks, bike lanes and safe‑routes projects; 25% would go to public transit agencies; 5% to regional connectivity projects; 4% to access and innovation (including guaranteed no‑cost fares for seniors and other specified groups); and 1% for administration and oversight.

Garibay said the measure also includes stronger transparency and accountability: an annual audit requirement, a publicly accessible project and finance database, and a citizen oversight committee. "Everything I've said is on our website, movingfresnoforward.com, including the entire ordinance you can read for yourself," she told the council.

Several residents spoke during public comment. One longtime resident, who identified herself as Claudia Hernandez, urged stronger support for small towns, argued that past measures had favored major urban freeway projects and pushed for guaranteed technical assistance so small jurisdictions can write competitive grant proposals. Garibay and supporters said the measure provides a consultant through the Fresno Council of Governments to help smaller cities pursue matching funds and compete for projects.

Councilmember Diego Garza moved to adopt the resolution and Mayor Pro Tem Sabrina Rodriguez seconded. The council approved Resolution 2026‑25 by voice vote, 4 yes, 1 absent.

The resolution is an expression of local support for placing the measure before county voters; it is not an adoption of tax language or a ballot order by the Parlier City Council. City staff, campaign representatives and residents discussed next steps for community outreach and for informing residents about how revenues would be prioritized locally.