Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Lemoore public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
4 issues in taxes budget with high priority
Funding the $2.45M JR Vilance settlement
The city settled contract claims from the water tank explosion near the college that caused a loss of life. Paying from the water capital fund keeps it off the general fund but leaves a temporary $556,000 hole to repay.
Measure P Hotel Tax Spending Plan
Hotel tax collections fell 24% year-over-year to about $59,000 in the second quarter, blamed on renovations and an ownership change.
FY 2026-27 City Budget Adoption
The city is projecting a $645,000 general fund overrun this year, blamed mostly on the ESG energy project, and the proposed FY27 budget adds six positions — including four police officers to create a fourth patrol beat and a business specialist to help businesses navigate city processes. Council members want to see revenue figures before committing to spending priorities.
Measure S Strengthening City Finances
Measure S is outperforming budget projections by about a million dollars, and the general fund is heading for a $2.8 million surplus this year — a big turnaround from the pre-Measure S days when layoffs and service cuts were on the table. The Chamber asked the council to restore funding for community events like the Christmas Parade as revenues improve.