Residents raise intimidation and traffic concerns over Newland Simpson warehouse project; calls for transparency after council settlement and recusals
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Summary
Multiple residents told the Hemet council at public comment that they oppose the Newland Simpson warehouse proposal, alleging developer intimidation, threatened lawsuits, and potential traffic, road and quality-of-life impacts if large warehouses are permitted near residential neighborhoods.
Dozens of residents used the Feb. 24 public-comment period to press the Hemet City Council on the proposed Newland Simpson warehouse project and related concerns, including allegations that the project's landowner had threatened lawsuits, sent harassing messages and pressured council members — actions residents said prompted a settlement that led to the recusal of two council members for the upcoming hearing on the project.
Speakers including Jean Faenza, Carol Vale and others described receiving emails, calls and social-media messages they characterized as intimidation. Several residents urged the council to resist reopening the project for a third hearing or to ensure strong safeguards for neighborhoods if large distribution warehouses are approved. Concerns raised repeatedly included heavy truck traffic, accelerated road deterioration, noise, air quality and potential declines in nearby property values.
Council and staff did not substantively adjudicate the intimidation claims in the meeting; the city attorney noted on the record that recusal decisions stemmed from settlement terms and that volunteer board service or private contacts do not automatically create legal disqualification under the Political Reform Act. Residents asked for more transparency about the settlement and consequences for alleged intimidation; council did not take immediate policy action during public comment but recorded the concerns and indicated staff follow-up would be necessary.
