Civic Issues
Topics getting the most attention in Highland public meetings, ranked by how frequently they are discussed.
12 issues in development
Industrial Expansion for Robertson's Ready Mix
Residents and organizers from the San Bernardino Airport area pushed back against time extensions for two approved warehouses, highlighting severe concerns over heavy truck traffic, air quality, safety near schools, and environmental justice.
Sterling Avenue Multifamily Apartment Complex Extension
A developer received a three-year extension to build a 220-unit apartment complex on Sterling Avenue, which includes affordable housing units and a fence height variance.
2026 Development Impact Fee (DIF) Update
The city is updating its development impact fees, with staff recommending a 12-month rate lock-in option to provide stability for builders. This helps balance infrastructure funding with predictability for new development.
Water Vending Machine Appeal and Business Impact
WaterMill Express appealed the denial of a water vending machine on Baseline Street, drawing heavy pushback from nearby business owners who worry about increased loitering, crime, and competition.
Special Tax Participation Dispute for Crestwood Homes Development
The city council debated whether a housing developer should be held to a verbal agreement to participate in a police and fire special tax district. The developer argued he was notified too late after homes were already in escrow, leading to council frustration over commitments.
Greenspot Village Phase II Condominium Development
A developer wants to build 240 condos in 37 three-story buildings on an 11-acre vacant lot. Nearby homeowners are worried about losing their privacy, dealing with construction noise and rodents, and handling stormwater drainage.
Residential Subdivision Street Naming
KB Home proposed themed street names for a new single-family housing development off Central Avenue.
Proposed Maverick Fueling Station and Valvoline Oil Change at Base Line and Buckeye
Developers proposed replacing stalled fast-food plans with a large convenience store, gas station, and oil change facility at a key gateway corner, sparking debate over whether it fits the city's town center vision.
San Manuel Village Trust Property Agreement
The city approved an agreement allowing the San Manuel Nation to place the San Manuel Village shopping center property into federal trust for non-gaming purposes. In return, the city will receive $675,000 annually for five years to offset lost tax revenues.
Blossom Trails Housing Development Time Extension
Developers of the 137-unit Blossom Trails project requested their final one-year extension to deal with slow-moving state wildlife permits for the endangered San Bernardino kangaroo rat. Residents and commissioners discussed how this project fits into the area's long-term housing plans and helps support nearby retail centers.
Wakeland Affordable Senior Housing Development
The city approved updated agreements for a 90-unit affordable senior housing project on Central Avenue, giving developers flexibility to build in one or two phases depending on financing availability.
Drive-Thru Restaurant Entitlement Extension and Traffic Signal Funding
The commission granted a one-year time extension for two planned drive-thru restaurants at Base Line and Buckeye Street while developers and city staff work through traffic signal cost-sharing agreements and un-funded gaps.