Recent Developments in Turlock: Housing, Adult Care, and Cannabis Extensions

The Turlock Planning Commission recently held a meeting where significant projects were approved, focusing on community growth and support services. Three main decisions were made that stand to impact the region positively: the introduction of a new housing development, the establishment of an adult day center, and extensions for several cannabis businesses.

New Housing Development

The commission approved a planned development project by Torre Reich Construction, designed to bring 22 single-family homes to East Turlock. This housing initiative will be located at 3130 E. Tuolumne Rd, strategically positioned between Waring Road and the Balisha Ranch subdivision, which is already under construction. The zoning permits a density of two homes per acre, catering to family needs within the community.

Attempts to enhance the development included deviations from the city’s usual setback and landscaping requirements. The developer requested these changes, and while the planning commission approved them, community feedback prompted concerns about increased traffic and the need for a strong landscape buffer. Residents expressed a desire for a roundabout to manage traffic more safely, suggesting that safety features should prioritize local needs.

Adult Day Center for Developmentally Disabled Adults

Another vital approval was for a new adult day care center, set to be built on Polous Drive. The project will unfold in two phases:

• Phase 1: A 12,000 sq. ft. main facility that will feature communal spaces, activity rooms, dining areas, and administrative offices.
• Phase 2: A subsequent addition of 10,000 sq. ft. focused on additional program spaces, therapy rooms, and recreational areas.

The center, licensed by the California Department of Social Services, is poised to operate from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday, serving between 100 to 125 clients daily with plans to employ approximately 50 to 55 staff members. CEO Vartan Hekimian emphasized the center’s commitment to aiding adults with various disabilities, including autism, Down syndrome, and seizure disorders, highlighting their excitement to contribute to the Turlock community.

Extensions for Cannabis Businesses

The planning commission also granted one-year extensions on development agreements for three cannabis-related enterprises:

• JDI Farms: Indoor cannabis cultivation at 600 D. St.
• Fire House: Cannabis retailer located at 1601 W. Main St.
• Perfect Union: A cannabis retail outlet at 2500 N. Golden State Blvd.

These businesses are part of Turlock’s cannabis program, which was initiated in 2019 as a pilot program requiring businesses to engage in development agreements with the city. Retailers are obligated to pay a benefit fee of either 5.25 percent of gross receipts or a minimum of $45,000, whichever is greater.

Looking forward, Turlock’s city council has been considering changes to the cannabis pilot program. As of 2024, there were discussions about ending the program’s status and introducing a tax; however, the council has decided against the tax for the time being and will continue granting extensions until updated business policies are finalized.

Community Voices and Future Considerations

Feedback from residents reflects a strong engagement in community planning. Many voiced concerns during the meeting, focusing primarily on safety and the conservation of community aesthetics. As new developments move forward, balancing growth with community needs and input will be crucial.

As Turlock continues to evolve through these developments, the integration of residential spaces, support services, and cannabis business extensions offers a framework for sustained economic growth while addressing the care needs of diverse community members. Observing these projects will be essential for understanding how they shape the future landscape of Turlock.