Last night’s Yucca Valley Planning Commission meeting featured another step towards development for Starbucks West, the new coffee house to be built on the corner of Barberry Avenue and Highway 62. The shop’s proposed landscape and irrigation plans include Mesquite and Palo Verde Trees, Red Yuccas, and other desert shrubs. The commission unanimously approved the plans, with Commissioner Vasconcelos noting that the plant palette will “bring new vibrance to that street corner.” Town staff anticipate that building permits will be issued soon.
The commission also reviewed last year’s General Plan Annual Housing Element Report, which evaluates housing development within the town. The report noted that between January 1 of 2022 and 2023, Yucca Valley had a growth rate of negative .4 percent. This decrease in population was in line with other towns of similar size, and the growth rate for the State of California was negative .4 percent as well.
Town staff reported that there are approximately 125 short-term rental permits currently available in Yucca Valley, an increase from the 95 available in November of last year. Staff is also beginning research regarding pop-up vendors and how such businesses fall in line with state codes.
In upcoming news, the Domino’s and Jersey Mike’s store is looking to pull building permits, and the former Travelodge Inn & Suit – now named “Field Station Joshua Tree” – has listed May 15 as the date bookings will be available for their renovated site.
Town staff reported that there are approximately 125 short-term rental permits currently available in Yucca Valley, an increase from the 95 available in November of last year. This change is due to the change in the housing market since the pandemic, with some owners opting to sell or transition their property to long-term rental units. Staff is also beginning research regarding pop-up vendors in Yucca Valley and how such businesses fall in line with state codes.
