Residents oppose Carmel Valley storage unit citing safety and environmental concerns

The Monterey County Planning Commission meeting on February 26, 2025, featured significant community concerns regarding a proposed storage unit facility in Carmel Valley. Residents, including Tracy Kaufman, voiced strong opposition to the project, citing potential safety hazards, environmental impacts, and violations of the Carmel Valley master plan.

Kaufman, a local resident, highlighted the drainage issues and lack of communication from developers regarding the project. She emphasized that the area is primarily residential, with the proposed facility situated next to homes, which could lead to increased traffic and noise. Kaufman expressed fears for the safety of children, elderly residents, and pets in the neighborhood, particularly with the anticipated heavy truck traffic associated with the storage unit.

The proposed facility, which would consist of 400 storage units, raised concerns about its visibility and impact on the rural character of Carmel Valley. Kaufman pointed out that the project does not align with the master plan's criteria for low visibility and unobtrusive access. She criticized the developers for prioritizing aesthetics from Carmel Valley Road while neglecting the views and safety of local residents.

Additionally, Kaufman raised issues related to crime and environmental pollution, arguing that the presence of another storage facility could attract criminal activity and contribute to local pollution. She noted that there are already two self-storage facilities nearby, questioning the necessity of the new project.

The meeting also allowed for public comments via Zoom, indicating ongoing community engagement in the planning process. The commission will need to consider these concerns as they move forward with discussions about the proposed storage unit facility. The outcome of this project could significantly impact the character and safety of the Carmel Valley community.