Residents oppose tiny home project at Morrell and Oakdale in Riverbank California

In the heart of Riverbank, California, the city council meeting on March 25, 2025, became a platform for passionate voices expressing deep concerns over a proposed tiny home project. Residents gathered under the fluorescent lights of city hall, their worries echoing through the chamber as they addressed the council about the potential impact of placing 67 tiny homes at the corner of Morrell and Oakdale Road.

Sal, a local resident, was among the first to speak, sharing his apprehensions about the project's location. He painted a vivid picture of the challenges faced by communities that have seen similar developments. "I've lived in areas where drugs, crime, and violence become an everyday reality," he said, urging the council to reconsider the placement of the housing project. Sal emphasized the need for proper infrastructure and support services to ensure the safety of both future residents and the surrounding neighborhood. He questioned how law enforcement would manage the additional strain and called for a thoughtful approach to helping vulnerable populations.

Roselyn Chandra followed, echoing Sal's sentiments with her own concerns about the tiny home community. She highlighted the potential for increased anxiety and agitation among future residents, given the proximity to schools, parks, and recreational facilities. "You are taking this group and placing them centrally within the city region," she warned, stressing the need for careful planning and oversight. Roselyn pointed out that the proposed residents might come from diverse and challenging backgrounds, raising questions about the adequacy of local services to support them.

Both speakers voiced a common fear: that the project, while well-intentioned, could lead to unintended consequences for the community. They urged the council to consider alternative locations where support services are more readily available, rather than placing such a significant development in a primarily residential area.

As the meeting progressed, the atmosphere was charged with a mix of hope and apprehension. Residents expressed their desire for a safe and supportive community, not just for those in need of housing, but for families and children who call Riverbank home. The council members listened intently, aware that the decisions made in that room would shape the future of their city.

The discussions at the Riverbank City Council meeting reflect a broader conversation about the balance between compassion for those in need and the responsibility to maintain community safety and integrity. As the council deliberates, the voices of concerned residents serve as a reminder of the complexities involved in addressing housing challenges in a way that benefits everyone.