Build Jobs Here—Not Barriers to Growth

Merced County community members -

Across California, we continue to see policies that make it harder—not easier—for working

families to achieve the dream of homeownership. The latest discussions surrounding Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) fees tied to Assembly Bill 130 are a clear example.

These policies attempt to reduce driving by increasing the cost of housing—especially in inland communities like ours. But here in Merced County, we see a better way forward.

Don’t Punish Commuting—Eliminate the Need for It

VMT policies charge developers based on how much future residents are expected to drive. Some estimates suggest these added costs could reach as high as $324,000 per home, ultimately pushing housing further out of reach for local families.

We should be asking a different question:

Why are people forced to commute long distances in the first place?

Instead of penalizing working families, we should focus on bringing high-paying jobs closer to where people live.

A Real Economic Opportunity for Merced County

Merced County is not starting from zero—we are uniquely positioned for growth.

At Castle Airport, we have infrastructure originally designed to support heavy military aircraft like the B-52 Stratofortress. That means the capacity exists today to support large-scale cargo operations and expanded passenger service.

At Merced Regional Airport, we have an existing foundation for regional passenger travel that can grow alongside our economy.

Combined with rail access through Amtrak San Joaquins and the ability to expand road connections to our freeways, Merced County has the building blocks for a fully connected transportation network.

Competing for the Jobs of the Future

With assets like University of California, Merced, available land, and a growing workforce, our county is well-positioned to compete for the next generation of industries—including artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing, and supply chain logistics.

As companies across the country look to expand and relocate, Merced County offers something increasingly rare: space to grow, infrastructure to support it, and a community ready to partner.

To business leaders and investors, the message is simple: Merced County is open for opportunity.

A Better Path Forward

We should repeal one-size-fits-all VMT mandates that punish inland communities and replace them with policies that:

• Encourage job creation closer to where people live

• Support infrastructure that connects workers to opportunity

• Recognize the unique needs of counties like ours

Leadership That Works for Us

Real leadership means understanding how policies impact real people—not just in theory, but in everyday life.

In Merced County, we believe in growth, opportunity, and making it possible for families to thrive. That’s what I will continue to fight for.

Stay engaged, stay informed, and let’s keep moving Merced County forward.

-- Gene D. Johnson Jr., Chair, Republican Party of Merced County