Moreno Valley Planning Commission (October 8, 2026)
Whether you run a retail shop on Sunnymead Boulevard or manage a service firm near the mall, local city hall decisions shape foot traffic, commercial development, and civic stability across our city. The Moreno Valley Planning Commission convened on October 8, 2026, tackling key commercial zoning approvals and local economic developments.
Here is an expanded dive into what was discussed and what it means for our local business community.
1. New Commercial Cannabis Retailer Approved for Butterfield Valley Village
The headline commercial item of the evening was the review and approval of Conditional Use Permit PEN26-0064. The Planning Commission voted 3 - 0 (with one commissioner abstaining) to allow a new commercial cannabis dispensary operated by Off the Charts (OTC Moll) to open in the city.
Project Details & Location
Address: 25125 Sunnymead Boulevard, Suite BB (located inside the Butterfield Valley Village Shopping Center at the southeast corner of Sunnymead Blvd and Perris Blvd).
Footprint: The business will occupy an existing 2,498 sq. ft. suite.
Hours of Operation: Proposed for 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily.
Facility Security: Features opaque, reflective privacy window films and 24-hour security surveillance.
Business Strategy & Community Pledges
Sean Maddox, Chief Legal Officer for Off the Charts, and CEO Norman Yousef presented their track record to the commission, noting they operate over 40 dispensaries across California.
They highlighted key operational commitments intended to integrate smoothly into the local commercial ecosystem:
Local Workforce Hiring: A focus on entry-level hiring and internal promotion from within the local community.
Local Security Feeds: Security measures include on-site guards and direct live-feed video availability to local law enforcement.
Community Contributions: The leadership expressed willingness to support local programs, including youth sports, Rotary events, and police and fire department initiatives.
Remaining License Capacity in Moreno Valley
Per City Resolution 2022-74, Moreno Valley caps commercial retail dispensaries at a maximum of 25 citywide. Following this approval, only 5 retail permits remain available across the city.
2. Commercial Revitalization: Major Experience Hub Opens at Former Sears Building
During commissioner comments, attention turned toward local retail redevelopment and foot-traffic growth at the Moreno Valley Mall.
Commissioners highlighted the newly opened immersive museum and exhibit space operating inside the former Sears building space.
Current Attractions: Features immersive digital art experiences (including a Vincent van Gogh exhibition), interactive vehicle simulators, and fine art displays.
Upcoming Additions: A new inline cafe is scheduled to open within the space soon.
Why it matters for local business: The conversion of traditional anchor-store vacancy into experiential, foot-traffic-generating entertainment provides a welcome boost for adjacent retail and dining establishments in the mall area.
3. Planning Commission Governance & Open Seats
The meeting opened with a recognition ceremony honoring former Commissioner Daryl Terrell, who received a plaque for his 3 years of service on the Moreno Valley Planning Commission following his appointment to the Riverside County Planning Commission.
"It's about people and responsibilities... Leadership is not always about making the popular decision. It's about listening to the people, reading staff reports, looking at the facts, and having the courage to make decisions you feel are right."
Daryl Terrell, Former Planning Commissioner
Vacancy Concerns Raised by Public
Multiple local residents addressed the commission during public comment, pointing out that the body is currently operating with five commissioners instead of its full seven-member roster plus two alternates. Speakers urged civic leaders and elected officials to reach a consensus on filling these vacancies to ensure steady municipal oversight and robust quorums for future planning hearings.
Source & Official Record
Meeting: City of Moreno Valley Planning Commission Regular Meeting
Date: October 8, 2026
Full Video Recording: City of Moreno Valley Official Video Record
