Fresno County · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Fresno County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Plan Year 2027 Health Insurance Premiums and Benefit Plan Changes
Dozens of county employees and union representatives testified during public comment about massive proposed hikes in healthcare premiums, warning that lower-paid workers will face severe financial hardship. Workers urged the board to increase county contributions to prevent employees from dropping coverage or leaving county service.
FY 2026-27 Interim County Budget Adoption
The county adopted its $5.48 billion budget, facing tighter financial margins, disappearing one-time pandemic funds, and rising contract costs across public safety and human services. Leaders focused on maintaining reserves, investing in county-owned facilities, and managing state and federal funding reductions.
Transient Occupancy Tax Ballot Measure
The board initiated a 12% transient occupancy tax on short-term lodgings in unincorporated areas to generate millions in discretionary general fund revenue.
Federal Legislation H.R. 1 and Local Impacts
County staff presented an analysis of H.R. 1, highlighting severe fiscal and operational challenges for county social services, public health, and behavioral health programs due to shifting cost-shares and new eligibility requirements.
Federal Legislative Platform Updates
The board updated its federal lobbying platform to advocate against federal Medicaid cuts, support stronger drug regulations for fentanyl and Kratom, and back federal immigration enforcement.