Hemet community protests warehouse project citing pollution and road damage concerns

The Special City Council Meeting held on July 14, 2025, in Hemet, Riverside County, focused on the contentious issue of proposed warehouse developments in the area. Residents expressed strong opposition to the construction of new warehouses, citing concerns over air and noise pollution, traffic congestion, and the potential negative impact on the community's quality of life.

Several speakers, including representatives from the Green Coalition of San Jacinto Valley, urged the council to reconsider the implications of becoming a "warehouse city." They emphasized the importance of preserving Hemet's natural beauty and community values, arguing that the influx of warehouses would tarnish the city's reputation and legacy. Mitzi Carver, a long-time resident, highlighted the detrimental effects of diesel truck emissions on air quality and the wear and tear on local roads, urging the council to pause further warehouse developments until the impact of existing projects could be assessed.

Other residents echoed these sentiments, expressing fears that warehouses would lead to increased pollution and diminish the area's appeal. Kathy Caraher pointed out that the proposed warehouses would not provide meaningful employment opportunities, as many jobs in the industry are low-paying and may soon be replaced by automation. Melanie Moyer, another resident, shared her personal connection to the valley and her concerns about losing the scenic views that attracted her to the area.

In contrast, some speakers defended the warehouse projects, arguing that they could provide much-needed jobs and economic growth for the community. Gustavo Lua, a vice president of a distribution company, emphasized the commitment of his company to create local job opportunities and improve the lives of residents. He noted that many local families currently face long commutes to work and that the new warehouses could alleviate this issue.

The council faced a challenging decision as they weighed the potential economic benefits of the warehouse developments against the strong community opposition and environmental concerns. As the meeting concluded, it was clear that the future of Hemet's development would hinge on balancing growth with the preservation of the community's character and quality of life. The council is expected to deliberate further on the matter in upcoming sessions, with residents keenly watching the outcome.