news
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945 Acre Solar + Battery Storage Project Proposed North of Hollister
The Allium Solar project in San Benito County proposes a 945-acre solar farm with a 15-acre battery storage system. Developed by Allium Solar LLC, it aims to generate 110 MW of power, creating 200 construction jobs and 15 permanent positions. Construction could start in 2027, with full operation by 2029. Continue reading
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Unincorporated County’s Housing Element Unlocks Potential 4,400 Homes In and Around Hollister
The San Benito County Board of Supervisors adopted its 6th Cycle Housing Element on May 20, 2025, addressing a need for 168 lower-income units. A rezone strategy will create a new “Residential High” designation across 12 sites, allowing 25-40 units per acre. The county must complete rezoning by December 2025 to maintain compliance. Continue reading
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LAFCO, What It Is and Why You Should Be Paying Attention.
LAFCO, or Local Agency Formation Commissions, regulates local government agencies, aiming for orderly development and adequate public services. Recent updates in San Benito County include commissioner changes and a focus on a wastewater MSR. Attention to LAFCO is vital, as its decisions affect local governance and service provisions. Continue reading
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Hollister Farms’ Newest Building Gets Go Ahead From Planning Commissioners
Hollister Farms has received planning commission approval for “Shops 3,” a 7,200 square foot building with three retail spaces, including a fast food location. City planners expressed concern over the drive-thru tenant but noted the design can accommodate 15 vehicles. Tenants are not confirmed, requiring further review for customization. Continue reading
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New Retail/Commercial Opportunities Continue to Increase in San Benito County
The retail landscape is poised for substantial growth in Hollister, with over 300,000 square feet of new commercial space being developed. Multiple shopping centers, including Hollister Farms and Santana Ranch, are introducing various retail opportunities. This expansion aims to curb “retail leakage” and bolster local businesses, offering potential tax revenue benefits. Continue reading
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The Housing Element Part 1: What is It?
The post discusses San Benito County’s housing policy and its impact, highlighting the Housing Element’s role as a state-mandated blueprint for local housing needs. Currently, all local jurisdictions are non-compliant, risking funding losses and potential legal actions, while introducing the Builders Remedy for eligible housing development projects. Continue reading
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Gavilan College’s New Hollister Campus is Now Open, What Comes Next for the Campus and the Fairview Corners Area?
On January 6, 2024, Gavilan College’s Hollister Campus opened, featuring classrooms, labs, and community facilities aimed at serving 1,500 students. Future plans include expansions to support 3,500 students and a local housing development. This initiative promotes educational access, economic growth, and traffic relief in San Benito County. Continue reading
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Measure G Annual Report & County Roads Update
The San Benito Council of Governments (SBCOG) board voted unanimously to release the 2023-2024 Measure G Progress Report. The progress report, notes several road repair and construction activities throughout the county. Meanwhile, our county roads program got a year end update as well! Continue reading
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San Benito HSD Moves Forward With Planning for New High School Site
The San Benito High School District Board of Trustees has unanimously approved the acquisition of two land parcels for a new high school site, addressing overcrowding at Hollister High. Despite failed funding measures, the district plans to proceed with site planning and development, aiming for a school to alleviate future enrollment pressures. Continue reading
The San Benito Blueprint 