Thermal Ranch Development Heads to Approval Vote as Residents Plan Protest

The Thermal Ranch project returns to the Riverside County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday, December 16th, for a critical approval vote — and residents opposed to the development say they're organizing another rally to voice their concerns.

The 619-acre equestrian facility, planned for 62nd Avenue in unincorporated eastern Coachella Valley, is led by Desert International Horse Park CEO Jeremy Smith. The project promises approximately 300 seasonal jobs during horse competition season, along with a hotel, retail spaces, and new infrastructure, including a utility substation.

But many Thermal residents argue that those benefits don't outweigh serious environmental and health risks. Chief among their concerns: fears about runoff, increased truck traffic during construction, and worsening air quality in an area already designated as disadvantaged.

Background

Back in October, the Riverside County Planning Commission approved the project after nearly three hours of public testimony. The vote came despite strong community opposition and reservations from at least one commissioner, who questioned whether the project could be justified without "tangible support from this community."

Under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the project underwent environmental review of potential impacts to air quality, water resources, and noise levels.

The Riverside County Waste Resources Department would enforce Best Management Practices for the large-scale manure disposal, while the County Department of Environmental Health reviews land-use health impacts.

Tuesday's Board of Supervisors meeting represents a critical decision point for the project. Residents have indicated they will continue pressing their concerns at what they see as a crucial juncture for their community's future.