Why It Matters

When many LADs were formed decades ago, they didn’t include an automatic cost-of-inflation update. That means while costs for water, landscaping, fuel, and equipment have risen every year, assessment amounts have stayed the same. As a result:

• Some districts have run short of funds needed to maintain the same level of service.
• Parks and landscaped areas are being serviced less often.
• Deferred maintenance is increasing — from irrigation failures to dying trees.
• Without an update, some districts could eventually face park closures or safety concerns.

Ultimately, some LAD assessment rates have not kept pace with inflation and rising maintenance costs, leading to budget shortfalls and delayed maintenance. To maintain safe, clean, and well-kept neighborhood parks and landscaping, the City is carefully re-evaluating assessment rates to ensure your neighborhood is properly serviced. 

This isn’t just about landscaping — it’s about protecting the character and value of Hanford’s neighborhoods. Well-maintained parks and green spaces are proven to:

• Increase property values and neighborhood pride.
• Improve safety and community health.
• Strengthen connections among neighbors.
• Provide spaces for recreation, families, and gatherings.

When we invest in our shared spaces, everyone benefits.

To generate more funding for LADs, property owners in the district can vote to increase the assessment. This process is a special ballot and is not part of the general election. Any increase requires a majority vote amongst property owners in the district. Every dollar generated stays in your district and directly supports your own neighborhood’s amenities.

If assessment revenue declines relative to costs or an increase is not approved by property owners, the district may have to reduce its service level, resulting in less frequent service. In extreme cases, a district may be shut down. 

Next Steps to Re-Align LAD Services with Neighborhood Needs

The City is committed to providing sustainable stewardship of service to neighborhood parks, landscaping and lighting to ensure all service levels are aligned with available funding and that property owners are informed on what each neighborhood’s unique assessment entails. 

Each district can vote to approve an updated assessment that reflects current maintenance needs. If your district is not one of the districts facing a fund imbalance, no changes will be made.

This is not a general election — it’s a special ballot sent only to property owners in your LAD. A majority of property owners must approve any proposed increase for it to take effect.

• Every dollar stays in your neighborhood
• Aligns services with today’s real costs
• Ensures long-term sustainability and safety

Transparency and Accountability

Every LAD has its own fund and a detailed Engineer’s Report showing:

• Annual budget and fund balance.
• Service level (A–F).
• How often maintenance is performed.

These reports are available to all residents, ensuring complete transparency and accountability.

To learn what district you are in, its fund balance, and its service level, read the Consolidated Engineers Report (PDF).

Over the next several months, the City will be hosting community workshops to share more about LADs, particular neighborhood needs, and how property owners within a district can vote to modify assessments and ensure proper upkeep of neighborhood amenities.

If approved, funds will be used to:

• Restore or improve landscape maintenance schedules.
• Keep parks open, clean, and safe.

What Residents Can Do

Learn More

• Visit the City’s LAD webpage for details about your neighborhood and landscape assessment district, including fund balance and service level.
• Attend upcoming community workshops to learn about your neighborhood’s specific needs.

Stay Engaged

• Ask questions.
• Share information with your neighbors.
• Participate in your district’s vote to help shape the future of your neighborhood.

Vote When Ballots Arrive

A small change today prevents higher costs tomorrow. Updating LADs ensures that Hanford’s shared spaces remain a source of community pride for years to come.

For more information, please email any questions to Brad Albert.