Bakersfield chamber backs Prop 36 for tougher crime penalties, sparking debate

On Wednesday, the Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce held a conference in support of Proposition 36, which they say the passing of will improve public safety and reduce drug trafficking. However, not everyone in attendance agreed.

Proposition 36 introduces harsher penalties for people convicted of certain drug or theft crimes.

We desperately need prop 36 to restore balance, accountability, and stop the madness," said Gino Valpredo, owner of Luigi's Restaurant and Delicatessen.

Valpredo said his restaurant has faced numerous instances of crime, but the offenders haven't seen consequences.

Cynthia Zimmer, district attorney, supports voting yes on Prop 36, particularly for the drug courts.

Because there is no deterrent effect and no help, we've seen a steady increase in drug addiction, theft and homelessness," said Zimmer, " We have lost so many young people to overdoses didn't need to happen.

Although lengthened prison sentences are not the proposal all community members want to see.

Kern County has historically been disinvested in, and they have thrived for over 100 years of incarcerating people. Incarceration doesn't work," said Ucedrah Osby, founder and executive director of Community Interventions, "They're going to create money by focusing on incarceration of of people who are living below poverty who have no access to anything.

With no funding for the treatments, Osby urges voters to check "no" on the ballot.

Prop 36 is like a spending scam," said Ucedrah Osby, founder and executive director of Community Interventions, "Why can't we invest dollars in our local community and give resources that our community needs?