The Hollister Planning Commission held a regular meeting on October 24, 2024, where significant concerns regarding traffic and housing development were raised by community members. The meeting began with public comments focusing on the pressing issue of traffic congestion affecting residents' daily lives.

One speaker expressed deep concern about the lack of discussion on traffic, highlighting it as a major complaint among residents. They noted that many Hollister residents commute to jobs outside the city, often spending up to two hours in their vehicles each day. This speaker emphasized that vehicle emissions contribute significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, suggesting that the city should prioritize attracting businesses to create local job opportunities. They argued that for every new housing unit built, there should be at least two jobs created in Hollister to alleviate traffic issues.

Another resident, Bridget Bowman Thorpe, shared her son's daily commuting struggles, describing the severe traffic congestion on Highway 25. She criticized ongoing housing developments, stating that they exacerbate the already challenging traffic situation and make living in Hollister increasingly unmanageable. Thorpe pointed out that infrastructure improvements are lagging, with significant changes not expected for many years, despite the city's plans for expansion.

Joe, another speaker, raised questions about the environmental impact report and the behavior of local drivers. He noted an increase in reckless driving and safety concerns, particularly in residential areas. He urged the commission to consider these behaviors in future planning and development discussions.

The meeting underscored the community's frustration with traffic conditions and the perceived disconnect between housing development and infrastructure improvements. Residents called for a more balanced approach that includes job creation alongside new housing projects to ensure a livable environment in Hollister. The commission is expected to take these concerns into account as they continue to plan for the city's future.