In a tense atmosphere at the Fresno County Board of Supervisors Special Meeting on December 20, 2024, community members voiced strong opposition to a proposed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) concerning the Southeast Development Area (SEDA). The meeting, held just days before Christmas, saw residents express deep concerns about the implications of the MOU on local farmland, housing, and environmental sustainability.

Brett Thompson, a resident of the affected area, highlighted the perceived inequities in the tax sharing agreement, arguing that it unfairly prioritizes development in SEDA while neglecting other parts of Fresno. He warned that the agreement would promote urban sprawl, converting valuable agricultural land into single-family homes, which he deemed unnecessary given the state’s housing needs. “This agreement greatly fosters annexation and development which will cause a significant effect on the environment,” Thompson stated, calling for an environmental review before any decisions are made.

Elizabeth Sandberg, another resident, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the financial burden the MOU could impose on taxpayers. She pointed out that the city of Fresno currently receives a disproportionate amount of services from the county, yet the proposed changes would further skew this balance. “The current tax sharing agreement formula is 100% adequate based upon the amount of usage that the city has of county services,” she argued, urging the board to reconsider the financial implications of the MOU.

Joselio Baraza, CEO of the Southeast Fresno Community Economic Development Association, also criticized the plan, suggesting that the city should focus on developing existing vacant land rather than encroaching on prime agricultural areas. “Why can't projects be first developed, use up the space available within the city?” he questioned, highlighting the significant costs associated with developing new infrastructure in SEDA.

As the meeting progressed, the board members listened intently to the concerns raised, with many residents expressing a desire for accountability and transparency in the decision-making process. The discussions underscored a broader community sentiment against what they perceive as a rush to develop at the expense of Fresno’s agricultural heritage and environmental health.

In conclusion, the meeting served as a critical platform for residents to voice their opposition to the MOU, emphasizing the need for careful consideration of the long-term impacts on their community. As the board deliberates on the future of the Southeast Development Area, the voices of concerned citizens will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the outcome.