(FRESNO COUNTY, CA) – The Fresno County Transportation Authority, (FCTA) is pleased to announce the appointment of Kirpal “Paul” Sihota (see Attachment A for photo) who will serve a twoyear term as the Rural Public Member-at-Large on the nine-member board that includes local elected officials. “Paul Sihota understands the transportation needs of the Valley,” stated Fresno County Supervisor Buddy Mendes, chairman of the FCTA board. “His 35-years of experience as an owner and operator of a local trucking business will bring a unique perspective to the board.” Sihota was appointed by the Fresno County Board of Supervisors to fill this position vacated in August, by John Clements, retired Transportation Director of Kings Canyon Unified School District. The board’s role is to implement the programs and projects funded by the 20-year Measure C Expenditure Plan. Measure C is Fresno County’s half-cent transportation sales tax with $72.9 million revenue projected in FY 2018-19. Fresno was one of the first “self-help” counties in California and successfully constructed over $1 billion of local infrastructure improvements between 1987-2007 throughout Fresno County and its 15-cities. Notable projects include SR-41, SR-168 and SR-180. The Measure C extension is projected to collect over $1.2 billion by 2027 in order to contribute to a vibrant economy, assist in cleaning the Valley’s air, and continue to leverage our local dollars with State and Federal funds to support Fresno County’s growing transportation needs. Sihota resides in Selma, CA and started in the trucking industry in 1980 as a driver. He currently is the owner and operator of Smartway Express, and farms almonds and grapes. He understands the value of hard work and wants to serve on the FCTA to ensure Fresno County continues to improve its transportation system in each of the county’s 15-cities. “The Fresno County Transportation Authority is committed to addressing the transportation needs of the Valley and as I join the board, I couldn’t be more committed to furthering its mission,” said Sihota. “As a local business owner for over 35 years, I look forward to bringing my experience in the transportation industry to the board as we work to serve all citizens of Fresno County.” Sihota will attend his first FCTA board meeting at 9AM on December 12, 2018. The public is welcome; FCTA meetings are held in the Fresno Council of Government Boardroom located at 2035 Tulare St #201, Fresno, CA 93721.
