Population Growth Draws a Mixed View
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Bakersfield and Kern County are among the fastest-growing regions in California, according to new population estimates by the Department of Finance.
The state grew by about 500,000 people last year for the fifth year in a row -- about 1.5% -- but Kern County grew about 2.3%, a number greeted with enthusiasm by business leaders and builders but more cautiously by environmentalists and those concerned with quality of life in the area.
“New growth means new need for products and services, which means potential growth for the business community,” said Debbie Moreno, president of the Greater Bakersfield Chamber of Commerce.
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