At a Glance: Storage Approvals and Data Centers

The Moreno Valley City Council returned to the dais this week for a session packed with decisions affecting local land use, development fees, and community sponsorships. For the Moreno Valley business community, the highlights included a major project approval for District 3 and a scheduled deep dive into the future of data centers in the city.

Here is what you need to know:

1. Major Project Approval: Public Storage Facility (District 3)

The most significant item for local commerce was an appeal regarding a proposed 131,000-square-foot self-storage facility at the northeast corner of Alessandro Blvd. and Indian St.

While the Planning Commission had previously failed to approve the project in June, the City Council voted 3-1 to overturn that decision and grant the permit.

• The Details: The three-story, climate-controlled facility will include 1,134 units and 52 RV parking spaces.

• Economic Impact: The developer, Public Storage, highlighted that the project addresses a gap in the market for climate-controlled storage and will improve a long-vacant lot.

• Community Benefit: The applicant offered a $250,000 voluntary donation to the Moreno Valley Community Foundation. While the project itself was approved, the Council voted to bring the donation acceptance back for a separate vote when the full Council is present.

2. Development Alert: Stephens’ Kangaroo Rat Fee Increase

Businesses involved in development and construction should note the Council’s approval of an updated mitigation fee schedule for the Stephens’ Kangaroo Rat Habitat Conservation Plan.

• The Change: The mitigation fee for developers has increased from $500 to $900 per gross acre.

• The Reason: This is the first update to the fee since 1996. It is intended to cover the rising costs of biological monitoring and reserve management. Single-family residential fees remain unchanged at $250.

3. New Rules for Logistics and Warehousing

The Council approved a new ordinance (Item J11) adopting mitigation measures for logistics use facilities. This follows a collaborative process between city staff and community advocates. The measures aim to balance the city’s massive industrial growth with environmental and air quality protections, specifically addressing building heights and cubic footage.

4. Upcoming Study Sessions: Shaping Future Policy

The City Manager announced two critical study sessions that local business owners—particularly those in tech and industrial sectors—should monitor:

• September 8, 2026: A session dedicated to Data Centers. This follows a wave of interest from other Inland Empire cities in regulating or pausing these facilities.

• October 13, 2026: A session on Industrial and Manufacturing uses, focusing on vacancy rates and land use policies.

5. Community Sponsorships Approved

The Council approved $60,000 in sponsorships for the 2026/2027 fiscal year. These funds support a variety of local non-profits and community organizations, including the Inland Coalition for Immigrant Justice, various food pantries (such as Oasis Community Church), and youth programs. These organizations play a vital role in the city's social safety net, which in turn supports a more stable local economy.

Quick Hits for Your Calendar:

• Sept 15: El Grito Celebration (6:00 PM – 10:00 PM at the Civic Center Amphitheater).

• Sept 16: E-Bike Safety Workshop (5:00 PM – 7:00 PM at the Conference and Recreation Center).

• Oct 10: City-wide Day of Service.

The Bottom Line: Moreno Valley is entering a period of policy re-evaluation regarding "big box" industrial uses and data centers. Business owners should stay engaged with the upcoming October study sessions to ensure their voices are heard as the city refines its General Plan and land-use tables.

This summary is provided for informational purposes for the Moreno Valley business community. For official minutes and records, please visit the City of Moreno Valley website.