Residents urge Sacramento planning commission to reject Airport South industrial project

In a recent meeting held in Sacramento County, community members voiced their concerns over a proposed industrial project that could reshape the landscape of the Natomas Basin. As the evening unfolded, the atmosphere was charged with a mix of hope and apprehension, as residents gathered to discuss the implications of the Airport South industrial project.

Robert Bernice, a local resident and member of the Eco Sierra Club, emphasized the dual purpose of the Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCo), which not only focuses on service provision but also aims to protect open spaces and agricultural land. He warned that the approval of this project could set a precedent for larger developments, potentially impacting the entire Natomas Basin. “This vote sets in motion a rationale for much bigger projects,” he cautioned, referencing the Upper West Side project that could bring thousands of new residents and commercial spaces.

Megan Elsey, representing the climate justice organization 350 Sacramento, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the environmental repercussions of increased warehouse construction. She pointed out that warehouses contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, exacerbating the climate crisis. “We do need jobs, but there are no jobs on a dead planet,” she stated, urging the commission to consider the long-term effects of their decisions on both the environment and public health.

As the discussion continued, Harriet Steiner, a North Natomas resident, reflected on the region's planning history. She recalled her involvement in earlier efforts to promote compact, sustainable development, expressing disappointment at the prospect of sprawl encroaching on agricultural land. “This property was designated for agriculture,” she noted, reminding the commission of the importance of preserving open spaces for future generations.

The meeting underscored a growing tension between development and environmental stewardship in Sacramento County. As community members rallied to protect their local landscape, the future of the Airport South industrial project remains uncertain, with many calling for a more thorough evaluation of its environmental impact. The outcome of this project could have lasting implications, not just for the Natomas Basin, but for the broader Sacramento region as it navigates the challenges of growth and sustainability.