Rialto Council Unanimously Upholds Community Appeal Against Warehouse Development and Approves First-Time Environmental Justice Element

**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

**Contact:**

Ana Gonzalez, Executive Director

Center for Community Action and Environmental Justice (CCAEJ)

Email: ana.g@ccaej.org Phone: (909) 275-9812

**Rialto Council Unanimously Upholds Community Appeal Against Warehouse Development and Approves First Time Environmental Justice Element**

Rialto, CA – In a landmark decision, the Rialto City Council has upheld an appeal by the Center for Community Action and Environmental Justice (CCAEJ) against the approval of a proposed warehouse on the corner of Locust Avenue and West Coast Boulevard. This victory follows an intense campaign led by CCAEJ in collaboration with over 70% of the impacted Rialto community who opposed the project due to significant health and safety concerns.

The proposed warehouse, which was to be situated merely 60-80 feet away from residential homes, posed a serious threat to neighborhood safety and well-being, potentially increasing traffic and pollution with dozens more trucks passing through daily, particularly affecting school routes for local students.

After numerous community meetings, discussions with developers, and engagement with both the Rialto Economic Development Committee and the City Council, the voice of the community was overwhelmingly heard. Ana Gonzalez, Executive Director of CCAEJ and resident of Rialto, praised the council's resolution, stating, "This has been one of the most heartwarming victories for CCAEJ and the community of Rialto this year. Witnessing the happiness in the eyes of our community members and knowing the health of my family and my neighbors is now better protected makes our efforts incredibly worthwhile."

Want to thank our amazing Rialto leaders, Kelly Valencia, Raul Valencia, Yesenia Ramos, and the more than 40 families who submitted letters and petitions asking council to do the right thing.

Furthermore, the Council's decision also included approval of a general plan update, integrating the Environmental Justice Element in compliance with SB1000. This achievement marks a significant step forward in ensuring that all Rialto neighborhoods are inclusive, self-sustaining, and designed for the safety and health of its residents.

CCAEJ extends its deepest gratitude to everyone who participated in the appeal process, attended meetings, and supported the campaign. This victory demonstrates the power of community unity and advocacy in effecting change and safeguarding community welfare.

For more information about CCAEJ and our efforts, please visit http://www.ccaej.org

**About CCAEJ**

The Center for Community Action and Environmental Justice (CCAEJ) is a leading progressive, equity-based organization focused on improving social and natural environments through environmental health perspective. By empowering resilient BIPOC intergenerational leadership and fostering strategic community base-building, CCAEJ cultivates thriving and inclusive neighborhoods.