Measure H progress report issued

CHICO — At the one-year mark of collecting sales tax revenue from Measure H, the city of Chico released a progress report Tuesday morning.

The 1% add-on, bumping the rate in the city to 8.25%, generated $23,804,163 — on par with the $24 million officials estimated when putting forth the proposal. The city spent 72% on roads ($17.2 million) and 25% on public safety ($6 million), with remaining 3% held in reserve.

In the announcement, Mayor Andrew Coolidge said Measure H “has been instrumental in our efforts to create a safer community ultimately resulting in a better quality of life for our residents. We remain committed to utilizing these funds effectively to address critical needs in Chico.”

Adopted by voters in 2022, Measure H took effect last April 1. The first project funded by the sales tax finished in September and included improvements on East Avenue, Lassen Avenue and streets in the Chapman/Mulberry neighborhoods. The City Council committed $10 million a year for 10 years for roadwork.

More projects roll out this summer, part of over $60 million the city plans to expend in fiscal year 2024-25 on infrastructure. City Manager Mark Sorensen said the city has 86 projects underway at various stages of development.

City officials have begun planning the ’24-25 budget, including specific plans for Measure H, which the council will review this spring.

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