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A live federal update turned into breaking good news: Hanford secured an extra $2 million for the Grangeville Boulevard Grade Separation Project, closing critical gaps in right-of-way and utility work that keep rail safety and traffic flow on track. We walk through what this funding unlocks, why timing matters for infrastructure, and how federal partners like Senator Alex Padilla helped put momentum behind a high-impact local project.

From there, we shift to people and policy. After a strong slate of interviews, we appointed Cecily Esparza, Parvio Gill, and Lisa McAlwaink (as an alternate) to the Planning Commission—key roles that shape land use, housing, and the day-to-day look and feel of our neighborhoods. We also spotlight Main Street Hanford’s annual report, celebrating the steady work of downtown marketing, events, and business support that fuels small business growth and stronger community ties.

We then dig into two decisions with long-term stakes. First, we authorized a consultant to build an agricultural mitigation program and feasibility study, inviting growers, landowners, and residents to help balance farmland preservation with smart growth. Second, we advanced a proposal to raise the Transient Occupancy Tax from 8% to 12%, channeling visitor dollars into essentials like public safety and parks. With the measure headed to the June ballot, we explain how TOT works, why our rate hasn’t changed since 1985, and what an update could mean for local services and quality of life.

Want the details and the rationale behind each move? Listen to the full recap, subscribe for more Council updates, and share your take—should Hanford update the visitor tax to support core services? Your feedback helps shape our next steps.

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