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Streets that last longer, a downtown built for people, and a public safety HQ that anchors confidence in the city center—this week we sit with City Manager Chris Tavarez to map how Hanford turns plans into pavement and services into momentum. From Measure H dollars preserving roads to a full‑depth rebuild of the East Lacey corridor, we trace what gets fixed now, what designs take shape, and why patience today sets up smoother commutes tomorrow.

We dig into the new public safety building near 7th and Harris, designed to bring police operations, fleet, and fire administration into one modern hub. The location choice is strategic, placing essential services where they boost foot traffic and business activity. On the utility side, we break down long‑overdue wastewater upgrades and the capacity jump from eight to twelve million gallons per day, plus what tertiary treatment could mean down the line. Refuse rates take center stage too: external tipping fees, the cost of hauling to Kettleman, and the case for renewing an aging truck fleet to cut breakdowns and keep weekly pickup reliable.

Not every dollar comes from residents. A proposed hotel transient occupancy tax increase—from 8% to 12%—would be paid by visitors and could add roughly $400,000 annually for police, fire, streets, and parks. We also clarify how landscape assessment districts work, why some neighborhoods face service cuts without updated assessments, and how the city supports property owners in making informed choices. On the growth front, we share progress recruiting restaurants and retailers, with announcements expected this year. Pair that with a $15‑plus million RAISE grant to improve downtown safety and walkability, and you get a clear picture of how infrastructure, policy, and placemaking invite private investment.

We close with a community boost: Sierra Pacific girls’ basketball surging toward a state berth, local baseball and softball updates, and a hole‑in‑one that made school history. If you care about better roads, safer streets, and a thriving downtown, this conversation offers the details behind the headlines and the timelines that matter. Enjoy the dive, then subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a neighbor who loves Hanford as much as you do.

You can find the Hanford Insider at www.hanfordinsider.com and on social media at @hanfordinsider
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