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The City of Selma is making it easier for homeowners to build Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) by offering pre-approved building plans. This new initiative is designed to simplify the construction process, providing residents with affordable, flexible housing options that meet city regulations. As housing shortages and rising living costs continue to impact the region, these pre-approved plans offer a practical solution for homeowners looking to add extra living space or generate rental income.

Faster Permitting and Cost Savings

By using pre-approved ADU building plans, homeowners benefit from a faster permitting process. Since the designs are already approved by the city, obtaining a permit is significantly expedited. Additionally, residents can avoid the typical costs associated with hiring architects and making multiple plan revisions, as the pre-approved plans comply with building codes. Homeowners can choose from a variety of designs, ranging from compact studio units to larger two-bedroom structures, allowing them to select a layout that best suits their property and needs.

Flexible Housing Options for Selma Residents

These pre-approved ADU plans offer several advantages for Selma homeowners. Whether used as rental properties, housing for family members, or guesthouses, ADUs present an opportunity to increase housing availability while maximizing property use. For those looking to generate additional rental income, ADUs provide a viable option. Additionally, with rising housing costs, ADUs offer a practical solution for multigenerational families who want to keep aging parents or adult children close by, offering private living spaces while maintaining proximity.

Adhering to Building Codes and Guidelines

Although the plans are pre-approved, homeowners must still adhere to specific building codes and regulations to ensure safety and compliance. The City of Selma’s Planning and Building Department offers clear guidelines on the size, design, and placement of ADUs to ensure they meet local standards. Homeowners can choose from four different sizes—375, 550, 743, and 908 square feet—all of which comply with Selma development standards.

Streamlined Permit Process for Pre-Approved ADUs

The city has streamlined the steps for homeowners, allowing them to bypass lengthy reviews and plan revisions. Once a design is selected, homeowners can submit their application and receive a permit in a fraction of the time it would take for a custom build. The Planning and Building Department also provides support and guidance throughout the process to ensure a smooth experience.

How to Get Started

For residents interested in building an ADU, the City of Selma’s Planning and Building Department is ready to assist with reviewing available designs, determining the best fit for their property, and beginning the permit application process. For more detailed information on requirements and design options, homeowners are encouraged to visit the city’s website or contact the department directly.

The launch of this program represents a significant step forward in addressing Selma’s housing challenges. By offering pre-approved ADU designs, the city is creating more housing opportunities, helping homeowners invest in their property, and contributing to the community’s future growth.

To learn more or get started, contact the Planning and Building Department today.

On November 5, 2024, Selma residents will vote in both the Presidential General Election and the City’s General Municipal Election. It’s important to be aware of key dates and voting options to ensure your voice is heard.

Local Elections- Selma’s General Municipal Election will include:

• District 1 Council seat (four-year term)
• District 4 Council seat (four-year term)
• At-Large Mayor seat (two-year term)

Additionally, Measure T, proposing term limits for City Councilmembers and the Mayor, will be on the ballot. If approved, the ordinance would limit both positions to two consecutive terms, with breaks in service required before running again.

Key Dates and Voting Options

📅 October 7, 2024: Vote-by-mail ballots will be mailed; drop box opens at the Selma Library.

📅 October 21, 2024: Last day to register to vote.

📅 October 26, 2024:11-Day Vote Center opens at Selma Neighborhood Resource Center (1940 E. Front St., Ste 102).

🕒 Hours: October 26 - November 4, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

The Vote Center will be open on both Saturday AND Sunday, so it’s easier than ever to cast your vote!



🕒 Election Day: November 5, 7:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Voting Options

• Vote-by-Mail: Return ballots by mail or at official drop boxes.
• In-Person Voting: Visit the 11-Day Vote Center starting October 26 for assistance, ballot replacements, or to vote in person.

For assistance, contact the Fresno County Elections Office at (559) 600-VOTE (8683) or visit fresnocountyvote.com.

The Central Valley Training Center (CVTC) is celebrating the graduation of its 14th cohort, bringing the total number of graduates to 223 since its inception. This workforce development program is made possible through a partnership with the Fresno County Economic Development Corporation and the California High-Speed Rail Authority. CVTC provides hands-on pre-apprenticeship training to veterans, at-risk young adults, and minority and low-income individuals across Fresno, Kings, Tulare, Kern, Madera, and Merced counties.

Graduates of the program receive industry-recognized certifications in a range of essential skills. These include OSHA 30, the construction industry standard for safety compliance, and hazardous waste identification and management. They also learn traffic control work zone safety fundamentals, confined space entry protocols, first aid and CPR for basic life support, and safe forklift and scissor lift operations. Additionally, participants earn an EPA Lead-Safe RRP certification, which equips them with the knowledge to work safely in lead-contaminated environments.

CVTC’s 12-week program is an excellent opportunity for individuals to gain the skills needed for fulfilling careers in the building trades.

City of Selma's Animal Services Center: Here for You and Your Pets!

The City of Selma is proud to introduce its new Animal Services Division, dedicated to helping keep pets with their families and providing essential resources for Selma residents. The Animal Services Center, located at 2831 W. Front Street, is now open for business from 10 AM to 4 PM, Monday through Saturday.

Our dedicated Animal Services Team is ready to assist you from 8 AM to 4 PM, Monday through Saturday. For Priority 1 emergencies—such as dog bites, sick or injured animals, or vicious animals—please contact the Selma Police Department immediately. For non-emergency situations, our team will be available to assist the next business day.

We’re here to help! For general inquiries, call us at (559) 218-1937 for questions about adoptions or lost pets, reach us during business hours. And remember, for any urgent emergencies, don’t hesitate to dial 911.  

Our Services Include:

• Emergency transportation for injured stray animals
• Animal bite reporting and quarantine as needed
• Impounding and temporary care for stray or unwanted animals
• Investigations into animal-related criminal activities
• Resolving citizen complaints regarding animals
• License enforcement
• Assisting with animal traps
• Enforcing dangerous/vicious animal regulations
• Supporting vaccination clinics
• Coordinating euthanasia services when absolutely necessary

We're here to support you and your furry friends!

After being closed for over a year due to code compliance issues, the Salazar Building is officially back in operation thanks to the hard work of Selma’s Public Works Department. Major upgrades were completed to bring the facility up to standard, including a new roof, fresh interior paint, repolished floors, a deep clean, and crucial fire safety corrections. With these improvements, the Boys and Girls Club can once again use this space to provide valuable programs for local youth in this prime location.

Salazar Park also received a few upgrades of its own, including brand-new basketball backboards and rims, creating an enhanced experience for parkgoers. Additionally, the park’s beloved Splash Zone is awaiting a few final parts to be fully operational for the 2025 season.

For more information on the Salazar Building or park upgrades, contact the Public Works Department at (559) 891-2248 or email ulyssesm@cityofselma.com.

We are proud to introduce the dedicated members of our Code Enforcement team, Sukhjeet Samra and Alexander Heredia! Their mission is to keep our community safe, clean, and well-maintained by addressing code violations through four key methods: self-initiated inspections, online reporting, public calls (via Dispatch), and department notifications.

Understanding the Code Enforcement Process

• Typically after receiving a report, the team responds to the identified location.
• They identify the homeowner or person responsible for the property.
• When possible, they attempt to make direct contact with the responsible party.
• If necessary, they issue a notice to address and resolve the violation.
• By following these steps, our Code Enforcement team ensures that Selma continues to be a beautiful and healthy place to live.

For more information or to report a violation, feel free to reach out to our Code Enforcement team!

Selma residents, it's time to renew or join the FireMed Program! For just $75 a year, you and your household will receive emergency ambulance services with all deductibles and copays covered.

What is FireMed?

A $75 annual membership provides financial protection for emergency ambulance services in the Selma, Kingsburg, and Dinuba regions.

Benefits of FireMed:

• Peace of Mind: FireMed covers emergency ambulance services that your insurance may not.
• Emergency Transport & Assessments: FireMed protects you from unexpected medical bills by covering emergency transport services.

Sign up today and ensure your family is prepared for emergencies!

Did you know that your everyday actions can help prevent pollution in our local water resources? Rainwater and excess water from activities like over-watering your lawn or washing your car can carry harmful pollutants through gutters and into stormwater basins, canals, and even the Kings River. This water eventually contributes to groundwater recharge, which affects our drinking water supply, making it essential to keep storm drains clean. Rainwater that falls on your property drains to your street, to the nearest drain inlet, then through pipes to Shafer Park, Valley View Basin, or your neighborhood basin. All of these basins are designed to allow the storm water to percolate into the ground water.

It's not just up to businesses to reduce pollution; all of us can make a difference. With about 25,000 people living in the Selma area, every small action counts toward keeping our stormwater and drinking water clean. Here are some easy ways you can help:

Tips to Prevent Stormwater Pollution at Home:

• Never Wash Anything Into the Gutter: It may seem harmless, but anything that enters the gutter—including paint, household chemicals, or debris—ends up in our basins and ultimately our groundwater. This is not only harmful but also illegal. Hazardous materials like chemicals from pool filters or pesticides can severely impact water quality.

• Dispose of Household Hazardous Waste Correctly: Items like motor oil, paint, batteries, and pesticides should never be thrown in the trash or washed down the drain. These materials can be safely disposed of at designated hazardous waste facilities. For more information, visit the Fresno County Household Hazardous Waste website.

• Be a Smart Gardener: Overuse of garden chemicals like fertilizers and pesticides can be carried off by rainwater, contaminating the stormwater system. Use less toxic products and natural alternatives, and always follow label instructions carefully. Sweep your sidewalks and patios instead of hosing them down, and compost your leaves and clippings rather than letting them wash into the storm drains.

• Conserve Water in Your Yard: Overwatering wastes water and washes harmful chemicals into the storm drains. Adjust your sprinklers to prevent overwatering, ensure they’re pointed at your lawn (not the sidewalk), and fix any leaks. A properly maintained sprinkler system not only saves water but also keeps pollutants from entering our water system.

By following these steps, we can all play a part in preventing pollution and protecting the health of our community and environment. Thank you for doing your part to keep Selma’s drinking water clean!