Central Unified board adopts resolution opposing SEDA plan, urges funded infrastructure for west-of-99 neighborhoods

The Central Unified Board of Trustees voted April 28 to adopt Resolution 2526-58 formally opposing the Southeast Development Area (SEDA) Plan as currently proposed by the City of Fresno, saying the plan would direct public investments away from long-neglected neighborhoods west of Highway 99.

Trustee Sidhu framed the resolution as a call for the city to commit a concrete, funded infrastructure-investment plan for west-of-99 communities before approving large-scale peripheral expansion. The resolution affirms the district’s mission to serve families in neighborhoods that lack roads, utilities, parks and transit, and calls on the city to prioritize infill strategies that strengthen existing neighborhoods.

The board heard lengthy public comment from community advocates and residents. Community organizer April Henry told the board, "Silence in this moment is not neutral. It's a decision," and urged trustees to stand up for students and families at risk of losing services. Speakers from the Greenfield Coalition and neighborhood advocates cited missing sidewalks, strained municipal finances, and potential school closures as reasons to oppose the plan.

Several trustees said the resolution was about prioritizing existing residents and infrastructure; Trustee Sidhu moved the measure and Trustee Harman-Singh seconded. The motion carried. The board directed the superintendent or designee to transmit the resolution to the Fresno City Council, the mayor and planning departments and to participate actively in the SEDA public process.