Hemet residents oppose warehouse project citing traffic, health, and identity concerns

Residents of Hemet voiced strong opposition to a proposed warehouse project during a special city council meeting on July 14, 2025. Community members expressed concerns about the potential impact on traffic, health, and the city’s identity, urging council members to reject the development.

Don McGonigoni, a local resident, highlighted the challenges of commuting from Hemet, noting that the addition of heavy truck traffic could significantly worsen congestion on already busy roads. He described his daily commute as taking up to an hour just to reach the freeway, and he fears that the proposed warehouse would double that time due to increased truck traffic.

Erica Arpaccio, another resident, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that the warehouse would not contribute to Hemet’s prosperity. She argued that the project would bring thousands of diesel truck trips daily, threatening the community’s health and environment. Arpaccio also raised concerns about the infrastructure, stating that local roads, particularly Warren Road, are not equipped to handle the anticipated industrial traffic.

The residents’ concerns extended beyond traffic. They expressed a desire for Hemet to maintain its scenic beauty and community identity rather than becoming a hub for warehouses and industrial development. Arpaccio urged the council to consider the long-term implications of the project, questioning whether Hemet should be rebranded as a vibrant city with retail and community spaces or as a “warehouse town.”

The planning commission had previously recommended denying the project, reflecting the community's clear opposition. As the council deliberates, residents are calling for a vision of Hemet that prioritizes health, quality of life, and sustainable economic growth over industrial expansion. The outcome of this meeting could shape the future of Hemet and its identity for years to come.