Norco Residents Oppose Proposed Megachurch Expansion Amid Zoning Concerns

Community Opposition to Megachurch Expansion

• 🏘️ Residents in a quiet residential area of Norco are expressing frustration over plans to expand the Living Truth Christian Fellowship megachurch.
• 🔊 Concerns include potential noise pollution, increased traffic, and a decrease in property values.
• 📜 Many residents have voiced their opposition to the city, attending planning commission meetings to share their grievances.

Details of the Proposed Development

• 🏗️ The proposed church expansion involves a two-story, 55,000 square-foot building at 3475 Hillside Avenue.
• ⛪ Initial plans indicate seating for 700 people, with a video from February 2024 detailing a blueprint for classrooms, a playground, and over 200 parking spaces.
• 🌳 The church has acquired over 4 acres for this expansion, which supporters are excited about.

Zoning and Permitting Process

• 🏞️ The proposed site is currently zoned for agricultural land use, leading to resident concerns about its suitability for a large church.
• ⚖️ However, an exception in the municipal code appears to allow churches in residential or commercial areas with a conditional use permit, which the church has applied for.
• 📅 The Norco Planning Commission, composed of five residents, is scheduled to meet on May 14th to further address the proposal.
• 🔄 If the commission denies the permit, the church has the option to appeal the decision.