Redlands residents express concerns over warehousing and need for affordable housing

The City of Redlands Planning Commission meeting on May 27, 2025, focused on pressing issues surrounding local development, particularly the need for more office space and the ongoing debate over warehousing in the area.

Commission members and residents expressed concerns about the lack of high-quality office space, which they believe is essential for attracting jobs that would allow residents to afford living in Redlands. One speaker emphasized that while there is a pressing need for affordable housing, the conversation around warehousing should be separate, highlighting that the community has reached its limit on warehouse development due to increased traffic and other challenges.

Another resident, reflecting on decades of housing development in Redlands, noted that despite the construction of numerous residential properties, home prices and rents have not decreased. This speaker argued that simply adding more housing does not equate to affordability, as market dynamics largely dictate prices.

Community member Roberto Saha voiced a broader concern about the impact of warehousing on the community's character. He urged the commission to consider the importance of public spaces and community traditions, suggesting that vacant lots and zoning opportunities should be viewed as chances to enhance public life rather than merely as potential sites for warehouses.

The meeting concluded with a clear sentiment from residents against further warehousing, indicating a strong community desire to preserve the unique spirit of Redlands amidst ongoing development pressures. The commission will need to balance these concerns with the demands for economic growth and job creation in future planning efforts.