Residents of Hemet are raising significant concerns over a proposed massive warehouse project that is set to be built adjacent to a 55-plus community. During a recent city council meeting, local residents expressed their frustrations regarding the lack of transparency surrounding the development, which is being spearheaded by a Chinese company. Many residents reported being unaware of the project until after the land was sold, and they criticized the city for not providing adequate information.

The proposed warehouse, which would operate 24 hours a day and feature 47 dock doors, is expected to generate substantial noise and air pollution, with residents living as close as five feet from the property line. Concerns were voiced about the potential destruction of over 20 mature eucalyptus trees, which have been a part of the landscape for more than a century, and the negative impact on local air quality due to increased diesel emissions from trucks.

Residents highlighted the inadequacy of the city’s current infrastructure to handle the anticipated traffic increase, citing that the area is already classified as having poor traffic conditions. They also raised alarms about the proposed water runoff management plan, which they believe could lead to flooding and create a breeding ground for mosquitoes, particularly given the area's history of severe storms.

The community's worries extend to health risks associated with prolonged exposure to noise and air pollution, particularly for elderly residents who may already suffer from respiratory issues. One resident pointed out that the noise from trucks and machinery could disrupt sleep patterns, leading to further health complications.

In response to these concerns, residents are mobilizing to oppose the project, seeking support from local officials and environmental groups. They are advocating for a development that aligns with the community's needs rather than one that could compromise their quality of life. The city council has yet to make a decision on the zoning changes required for the project to proceed, and residents are urging their neighbors to voice their opposition ahead of upcoming elections.