Residents oppose new self storage facility in Moreno Valley citing community needs

In the heart of Moreno Valley, city council members gathered under the bright lights of the city hall, where passionate voices echoed the concerns of residents about a newly approved self-storage facility. The meeting, held on April 1, 2025, became a platform for community members to express their discontent over what many see as an overabundance of storage units in the area.

One vocal opponent of the facility, which is set to rise three stories high and house 887 storage units, articulated a strong case against its construction. Located at the southeast corner of Moreno Beach Drive and Alessandro, the facility is designed to occupy 26,000 square feet on 2.3 acres. The speaker argued that the East End of Moreno Valley deserves better than another storage warehouse, suggesting that the prime real estate could be better utilized for grocery stores or restaurants that would serve the community's needs.

"This is not what the West End wants," the speaker declared, emphasizing the growing number of storage units in the vicinity, including another facility approved just across the street. With a total of 1,880 storage units planned for the area, the speaker lamented the lack of diverse services that could enhance the community's quality of life.

As the discussion unfolded, another resident took the floor, addressing broader concerns about the influence of developers in local governance. He spoke of a perceived "evil" in the city, suggesting that developers wield undue power over public safety and city planning. His remarks highlighted a growing frustration among residents regarding the relationship between city officials and developers, which he claimed has led to decisions that do not reflect the community's best interests.

The meeting also saw a shift in focus as Roy Blackard, a resident announcing his move to Coachella, expressed his intention to run for the Fourth District Supervisor position. His comments about local governance and the challenges facing Moreno Valley added another layer to the evening's discussions.

As the council meeting drew to a close, the call for community engagement resonated strongly. Residents were urged to voice their opinions, whether in support of or against the storage facility, as the council prepares to make final decisions that will shape the future of Moreno Valley. The evening served as a reminder of the power of civic engagement and the importance of community voices in local governance.