Greater Bakersfield Chamber event highlights partnerships protecting the city's future
Experience the 2026 State of the City. Watch the full recording now and see how we’re building & protecting together.
Hundreds of business leaders, elected officials and community stakeholders gathered Wednesday, July 15, for the 2026 State of the City, presented by Adventist Health and hosted by the Greater Bakersfield Chamber at the Bakersfield Marriott at the Convention Center.
“Bakersfield’s progress belongs to all of us, and so does the responsibility to protect it,” said Mayor Karen Goh. “The future we are building depends on the partnerships we continue to strengthen today.”
Centered on the theme “Built Together. Protected Together.,” the annual event showcased
investments, collaboration and shared commitment shaping Bakersfield’s future.
“The Chamber is proud to bring together the leaders and organizations driving Bakersfield’s success,” said Janelle Capra, president and CEO of the Greater Bakersfield Chamber. “When business, government and community partners work together, we position Bakersfield for long-term success.”
City Manager Christian Clegg opened the presentation by focusing on protecting the community, highlighting investments in public safety, infrastructure, parks, neighborhoods and city services.
Clegg shared that overall reported crime decreased 7.5% over the past year, continuing a multiyear trend that includes a nearly 30% reduction in violent crime and nearly 35% reduction in property crime over three years. Since the implementation of the city’s gun violence reduction strategy, shootings have declined 68%, demonstrating the impact of data-driven solutions and community partnerships.
He outlined new approaches to public safety and service delivery, including the Real Time Information Center, expanded technology, improved emergency response efforts and investments supported through Measure N.
Beyond public safety, Clegg highlighted road improvements, transportation projects, downtown revitalization, park enhancements and community beautification efforts that improve Bakersfield’s quality of life.
Goh focused her remarks on protecting opportunity and Bakersfield’s future. She addressed homelessness, affordable housing, workforce development and economic growth.
While homelessness remains one of California’s most complex challenges, Goh highlighted
measurable progress. According to the 2026 Point-in-Time Count, homelessness in Bakersfield decreased 3% from the previous year, while unsheltered homelessness declined 7.2%.
Over the past two years, unsheltered homelessness has decreased 16.3%, representing nearly 200 fewer people living on city streets.
Through coordinated efforts with organizations including The Open Door Network, The Mission at Kern County, CityServe and other community providers, more individuals are being connected to shelter, supportive services, workforce opportunities and permanent housing.
Goh also highlighted nearly 300 City-supported affordable housing units expected to become available this year, expanding housing opportunities for residents. She said continued investment in infrastructure, workforce development, economic competitiveness and community collaboration will drive Bakersfield’s next chapter.
The event concluded with a call for residents, businesses and community leaders to continue building on Bakersfield’s momentum together.
