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Hemet Sphere of Influence (SOI) Annexation Proposal

A group called Hemet United/Hemet Rising petitioned the City of Hemet to annex the unincorporated areas surrounding the City of Hemet. Here are the areas of concern that have been voiced by residents:

General Overview

Logical Extension: While the annexation area aligns geographically with Hemet city limits, questions arise about the actual improvements this will bring beyond being a “logical” adjustment. Some argue that a physical or tax-based extension does not inherently benefit the community.
Local Control: The proposal is framed as an opportunity for citizens to gain more influence over governmental decisions. However, concerns exist regarding the effectiveness of the current City Council, given public dissatisfaction with issues such as downtown upkeep, unresolved building codes, and homelessness.

Financial Implications

Tax Allocation: Annexation would allow a larger portion of local taxes to stay within the community, promising enhanced public services. However, residents have expressed dissatisfaction with the city’s current resource allocation, citing unresolved issues with blight and historical preservation.
County Resources: Supporters claim the County could redirect resources to other regional priorities after the annexation. Verification is requested to confirm this as a concrete outcome.
Road Updates Cost: Reports highlight a $45 million cost for road updates in the County, but clarity is needed on whether this figure is accurate or accounted for in the city’s financial plans.

Governance and Representation

City Council Districts: Hemet’s five-district system may not adequately represent rural community needs. Some propose adding a new district specifically focused on rural concerns to ensure equitable representation.
Measure U: Passed in 2016 to increase public safety funding, this measure is relevant to annexation discussions. Residents request data on how funds were used and whether they were managed responsibly, as well as the measure’s impact on the community.

Public Services

Police and Fire Protection: Annexation would transfer these services to Hemet. While improved patrols and supervision are potential benefits, there are concerns about service reliability during the transition period and whether a detailed plan exists to address gaps.
Water and Sewer Services: No changes are expected, but a formal statement of support or neutrality from the Lake Hemet Water District could address lingering concerns.
Refuse Collection: The switch to mandatory city service raises questions about cost disparity for rural properties and overall satisfaction levels. Residents want data comparing city and county refuse services.
Street Sweeping: This service would be assumed by the city’s subcontractor, but rural residents worry about overuse, noise pollution, and unnecessary costs. Community input is requested to tailor services to actual needs.

Community Impact

Schools: Annexation could lead to enhanced police patrols around schools, a potential safety benefit. Statistical data on incident calls, response times, and safety improvements is requested to substantiate this advantage.
Address Changes: Changing addresses raises concerns for older residents and the administrative burden on the community. Suggestions include cost-free or extended forwarding services and statements from local postal officials to ease the transition.
Zoning and Code Enforcement: Clarity is needed on how city codes differ from county regulations. Residents request a panel of experts and specific examples to explain potential impacts.
Recreational Vehicles and Trucks: Parking restrictions under “reasonable limitations” conflict with rural lifestyle preferences, leading to calls for clearer definitions and assurances of fairness.

Annexation Process

Citizen-Initiated: The process involves petition signatures gathered by residents, but some feel this was not done transparently or inclusively. Suggestions include updating the proposal, raising awareness, and re-initiating the petition with broader community input.

Demographics and Economic Impact

Demographic Changes: Requests for data on how annexation may alter income levels, housing options, or community composition. Positive perspectives supported by statistics could bolster the proposal.
Business Development: Annexation might offer an opportunity to influence the types of businesses allowed in the area. Questions center on whether this could lead to a better balance between retail chains and unique community-driven options.

Community Engagement

Townhall Meetings: There is strong support for townhall-style meetings to foster transparency and inclusivity. Stakeholders from city and county services, councils, and diverse resident groups should participate to address concerns comprehensively and collaboratively.