Politics

A 20-year extension on the city of Hollister’s voter-approved, 1 percent sales tax will go before voters in November. Measure W offers an extension of Measure E, which was enacted in 2012. The new, 20-year extension is expected to contribute $4.5 million annually to the city’s general fund if it passes. Last year, the special sales tax brought in around $4.6 million, according to city figures.

With a relatively recent rush of interest for development in the Southside Road area of San Benito County, planners are exploring whether to amend the recently completed General Plan to include a fifth special study area for potential building projects.

Even though it is officially illegal for BMX riders to use the skate park in Hollister, the venue over the years has become a haven for both skaters and bicycle users. With overcrowding causing continued safety issues, though, local park leaders are looking into building a separate facility for BMX users on the nearby basketball courts.

March is Women's History Month. To commemorate the outstanding women in our communities, Assemblymember Luis A. Alejo will name one leader from the district the 2012 Woman of the Year.

Government agencies have been working with the Homeless Coalition of San Benito County on solving short-term homeless issues and the problem with a lacking, permanent shelter as well.

Hollister residents will see significant increases to their water bills over the next five years after the council Monday gave final, unanimous approval to rate hikes. Before that vote, some residents shared strong views in opposition, one council member called a critique from the public "B.S.", and the vice mayor acknowledged that he regularly drinks ancient, pure water from McAlpine Lake.

Barring a miracle, incumbent District 1 Supervisor Margie Barrios has squeaked by a challenger who campaigned on a message that county leaders have not done enough to reduce the size of government.