Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Economic Development topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Commission approves site plan for 231,500‑square‑foot American Jerky manufacturing plant; commissioners seek odor details
Summary
The Planning Commission approved a site plan (PLAN23-00018) for an approximately 231,500-square-foot dog-treat manufacturing facility that the applicant said could employ up to 450 workers; staff found the project consistent with the city’s general-plan program EIR and exempt from additional CEQA review under Section 15183.
The Victorville Planning Commission voted to approve a site plan (case PLAN23-00018) for an approximately 231,500-square-foot pet‑treat manufacturing facility on about 10 acres in a heavy industrial (M-2) zone, where the American Jerky Company plans a freeze-dried dog‑treat plant the applicant expects could employ up to 450 people.
Staff said the project comprises roughly 211,860 square feet of warehouse and manufacturing space and 19,588 square feet of ancillary office space across two floors, with site improvements including 10 truck dock positions, three grade doors and 211 auto parking stalls. The applicant and staff concluded the project is consistent with the City of Victorville general plan and qualifies for the streamlined environmental review process provided in CEQA Guidelines section 15183; staff recommended adoption of resolution PD-25-014 approving the site plan subject to conditions.
During the public hearing, the applicant’s representative (first name Emily) described company background, local-hiring commitments, union-signatory general contractor Altman's and sustainability measures including energy-efficient systems, on-site solar and EV charging infrastructure. Commissioners asked about potential odors given past issues with another area food processor. Emily said the product is freeze‑dried treats made from human-grade raw materials and that an odor study was prepared and included in the CEQA checklist; she said the production process is not the same as larger-scale cooked pet food and that odors would be far less intense than other food-processing operations.
Labor representatives Joseph Quizada (Laborers Local 73) and Thomas Ruiz (Laborers’ International Union of North America Local 783) testified in support, saying the project would provide local construction and permanent job opportunities and reduce travel for local workers.
Commissioner Marshall moved to approve the site plan per staff recommendations; Commissioner Marsh seconded. Roll-call votes were yes from Commissioner Marsh, Commissioner Marshall and Chair Kurth; Vice Chair Mason and Commissioner Thomas were absent. The motion passed.
Why it matters: The approved project would add a large manufacturing facility with potential local employment benefits and infrastructure and environmental conditions; questions about odor controls were raised and staff notes an odor study and mitigation plan are part of the record. The applicant must complete plan checks and comply with conditions before final approvals.
The project record includes the applicant’s presentation and the response to a late comment letter from Supporters Alliance for Environmental Responsibility; staff advised the commission that the consultant’s response addresses the comment letter and confirms CEQA assessment adequacy.
