The effort to renew Madera County’s transportation tax received a major boost from the Chukchansi Tribe.
The Picayune Rancheria of the Chukchansi Indians announced that it has donated $100,000 to support the campaign to renew Measure T.
The backstory: Madera County’s transportation tax dates back to 1990 in the form of Measure A.
- Voters approved Measure T in 2006, implementing a half-cent sales tax that sunsets in 2027.
- Measure T has generated around $170 million for the county so far, with a total projection of $219 million by 2027.
The big picture: The renewed Measure T, which is appearing on the November ballot, will also have a 20-year lifespan, different from the 2022 renewal attempt, which had no expiration date.
- It would dedicate 80% of the tax to build and maintain local roads throughout the county.
- The renewed measure is projected to generate around $22 million annually, totalling $440 million over its lifetime.
What they’re saying: “This significant contribution underscores the Tribe’s commitment to enhancing the quality of life in Madera County through improved infrastructure and transportation,” said Tracey Hopkins, Chairwoman of the Picayune Rancheria of the Chukchansi Indians.
- “We believe that the renewal of Measure T is essential for the continued growth and prosperity of Madera County. Our Tribe is deeply invested in the future of our community, and we are proud to support an initiative that will have lasting benefits for all residents. We look forward to fostering a continued partnership with the County of Madera as well as the City Council of Madera and Chowchilla.”
- Madera County Supervisor Jordan Wamhoff said Measure T is critical to continue Madera County’s growth and maintenance.
- “Through this campaign, we are leaning on all our partners across the county to help extend this critical lifeline,” Wamhoff said. “We are honored to have the support of the Tribal Council of Picayune Rancheria of the Chukchansi Indians, who are true development partners with the County of Madera, and we are excited to join with them to move Madera forward!”
