What changes for Fresno residents: County leadership faces public scrutiny over a theatrical promotional video tied to a Sept. 24 luncheon. Officials say the clip did not use county overtime and was funded by the Fresno Chamber of Commerce, but the footage has drawn both local and national attention.
Supervisor, chamber respond to backlash
Fresno County Supervisor Garry Bredefeld spoke with KMJ after a video featuring him firing weapons, traveling in an armored vehicle, flying in a helicopter and riding a boat drew widespread attention. The footage was created to promote the county’s upcoming “State of the County” event, scheduled for Sept. 24.
Bredefeld told KMJ’s news partner, ABC30, that the production was not a county expenditure. In his remarks, he said the video was
"paid for entirely by the Fresno Chamber of Commerce"
He also said the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office did not use overtime to support the shoot.
Chamber frames video as part of a larger event
The Fresno Chamber of Commerce issued a statement after viewers raised concerns about the tone and imagery used in the clip. The chamber said the video represents only a small element of the luncheon and emphasized that the event is intended to honor first responders and local workers rather than promote any single elected official.
- Event: Fresno County "State of the County" luncheon
- Date: Sept. 24
- Organizers: Fresno Chamber of Commerce (per supervisor and chamber statement)
Local context and implications
The video’s circulation has prompted questions about the line between promotional activity and public office visibility. Residents and civic groups often scrutinize elected officials’ use of public imagery and resources, particularly when law enforcement assets or dramatic imagery are involved.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Promotional content | Features Bredefeld in weapons, armored vehicle, helicopter, boat |
| Funding | Chamber of Commerce (per supervisor) |
| County resource use | No sheriff's overtime claimed (per supervisor) |
The luncheon is expected to bring together business and public safety partners. How the controversy affects attendance, discussion topics or future promotional practices for county events remains to be seen. KMJ produced the initial report and made audio of Bredefeld’s comments available.
Officials from the Fresno Chamber and the county supervisor’s office provided the statements cited here; no additional county agencies reported using overtime for the production.
