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Moreno Valley planners approve 13‑unit Gracia Avenue project, reject CEQA challenge at hearing
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Summary
The Planning Commission approved a 13‑unit, two‑story multifamily project with two attached ADUs at 24804 Gracia Avenue (PEN 230149), finding it exempt from CEQA under Class 32. Neighbors raised concerns about drainage, solar shading and neighborhood compatibility; commission approved the project subject to conditions and 10‑day appeal period.
The Moreno Valley Planning Commission on May 26 approved a plot plan for a 13‑unit, two‑story multifamily development with two attached accessory dwelling units at 24804 Gracia Avenue (PEN 230149), finding the project categorically exempt from CEQA under the Class 32 infill exemption.
Associate Planner Gabriel Diaz presented the staff report, describing the 0.91‑acre site and the proposed project layout: two buildings with 13 three‑bedroom units, two ADUs, 30 enclosed garage parking spaces and seven open guest parking spaces. Diaz told the commission staff had determined the project is consistent with zoning and general plan policies and that no additional environmental studies were required under the CEQA guidelines cited in the staff report.
Neighbors and nearby property owners raised concerns during the public hearing. Brett Nunley, who owns property immediately west of the site, told the commission he worries the two‑story project will shade his rooftop solar panels, could affect aging sewer lines and limit emergency vehicle access if cars park on the internal road. Another commenter, Seth Cox, pointed out an inconsistency in the staff presentation about acreage (the report lists 0.91 acres; a verbal comment misstated it as 1.9), and questioned whether the higher density fits the surrounding single‑story neighborhood. Esplan Gonzalez, representing local conservation groups, urged the commission to reconsider taking the project as CEQA‑exempt and said heavy construction next to March High School and residences warrants fuller environmental review.
During deliberations staff confirmed the correct site area is 0.91 acres. Fire Marshal Edgar Gonzalez confirmed the property is not in a high fire severity zone and does not require an additional fire access route under current unit counts. Applicant Jesse Wieser and project architect Darian Radek said the design conforms to municipal code, provides two‑car garages for each unit, includes on‑site stormwater retention chambers and that grading sheets identify drainage chambers and depths.
Vice Chairperson Baker moved to adopt Resolution 2026‑04 finding PEN 230149 exempt from CEQA under Class 32 and approving the plot plan subject to the conditions of approval; the motion was seconded and passed by roll call (all present commissioners voting yes). Staff told the commission the action is final unless an appeal is filed to the community development director within 10 days with the appropriate fee.
The commission’s approval includes the conditions listed in the staff report; project permitting and compliance details will be handled through the community development department and building permit process.
