Residents voice concerns over logistics warehouse project financial impact in city council meeting

Hemet city officials faced critical concerns regarding the financial implications of a proposed logistics project during a special council meeting on July 14, 2025. The discussions highlighted significant reductions in projected revenue and employment figures, raising alarms about the project's viability and its impact on city infrastructure.

Originally, the project was expected to generate approximately $225,000 annually for the city. However, with a decrease in the number of trucks and employees—down from 800 to 300 for Kirby and from 1,200 to 800 for Newland Simpson—the anticipated revenue has diminished. The projected employee-generated revenue, initially estimated at $43,000, is now uncertain due to these layoffs.

Concerns were raised about the adequacy of the revenue to cover essential road repairs, with officials noting that the current projections would not meet the city's maintenance needs. The potential environmental impact of the project was also scrutinized, as it was suggested that the Environmental Impact Report (EIR) had not been properly circulated for public review, violating California's CEQA regulations. This lack of transparency has left residents and council members questioning the validity of the project's assumptions regarding greenhouse gas reductions.

Moreover, the delay in providing crucial financial information to the public, which was only made available shortly before the meeting, has been criticized as a failure of the Public Records Act. Residents expressed frustration over the lack of comprehensive data needed to make informed decisions about the project.

The council is now faced with a pivotal decision: whether to proceed with the logistics project or consider alternatives that could better serve the community's economic and environmental interests. As discussions continue, the implications of this meeting will likely resonate throughout Hemet, influencing future development strategies and community engagement efforts.