Kern County workshops for Measure K

This week the Kern County Board of Supervisors unanimously passed placing Measure K on the November ballot. The measure will ensure the maintenance of vital local services like law enforcement, fire, 911 response, crime prevention, retaining sheriff deputies and firefighters, and addressing mental health challenges. If adopted, the measure would establish a 1 cent sales tax in the unincorporated areas of Kern County to provide for maintenance of these services until it is cancelled by the voters. It will provide approximately $54 million annually to fill the void created by recent legislation in Sacramento. Two public workshops will be held locally to answer questions from voters.

Bear Valley Springs Education Workshop

On Sept. 9 from 6 to 7 p.m. at the Whiting Center, 26940 Bear Valley Rd.

Stallion Springs Education Workshop

On Sept. 19 from 6 to 7 p.m. at the CSD Community Room, 27800 Stallion Springs Dr.

As the City of Tehachapi in not part of unincorporated Kern County, the Tehachapi City Council also voted to place a 1 cent sales tax for the city on the November ballot in order to address the same shortfalls caused by state legislation. If adopted, the measures will increase the sales tax in both the city and the county to 8 1/2 percent.