The Oxnard Planning Commission has approved special use permits and environmental documents for a controversial plan to store approximately 5,000 new vehicles on a 34-acre vacant lot on the southeast corner of Hueneme and Perkins roads. did.
The Commission voted 4 to 1 in favor of Hueneme port officials at the conclusion of a public hearing that began at 6:00 pm on 20 October at approximately 11:30 pm. Attend. Many people commented on the proposal, and many pitched the financial benefits. Other speakers were concerned about air pollution in a region that has historically been home to many industrial developments.
Hueneme port CEO Kristin Decas told the commission that the plan, known as Project 34, will create jobs and strengthen the port’s position as a leader in vehicle imports and exports.
“When the port does well, the whole community benefits,” Decas said.
She explained that the project is planned as a temporary facility for no more than five years. The ground will be gravel instead of paved, so private land can be converted to other uses in the future. The project includes perimeter fencing and native landscaping, and only temporary buildings housing security offices and restrooms.
This facility is used by the shipping company Glovis. The company represents global trade worth more than $2.7 billion while employing more than 167 local residents, according to Decas.
“The port is well-positioned to serve as a key hub to meet the governor’s electric vehicle mandate towards 2035. Importing affordable low- and zero-emission brands will help us lead the way in this transition,” said the port’s CEO.
Opposition to the project has focused on environmental impact and social justice, with many activists citing years of industrial development and pollution in South Oxnard.
Wildlife biologist Sean Smallwood told the commission that the environmental impact report mischaracterized the project’s location. “The site is not pristine, but it is used by wildlife. A city consultant surveyed the site in just two hours and saw seven species of wildlife. So far, 47 species have been confirmed.”
The project is also being opposed by the Central Coast Alliance for a Sustainable Economy United, or CAUSE, a local charity working on environmental and social justice issues. Associate Policy Director Lucia Marquez told Ventura County Reporters after the meeting that, unlike other communities where coastal areas are used for recreation, South Oxnard has been the site of many industrial projects over the years. said.
“It’s home to farm workers, undocumented communities of color, the working class, and low-income workers,” Marquez said. “Their access to coastlines and green spaces is actually occupied by industry, and Oxnard is considered a victim zone of industry, which is highly polluted and has a significant impact on the health of people living in the area. increase.”
Marquez said she and other CAUSE officials were disappointed with the board’s decision and an appeal to Oxnard City Council is being considered.
