(Photo: Olivet University)
Olivet University has secured an indefinite right to utilize its Anza, California campus for educational purposes, following a unanimous decision by the Riverside County Planning Commission. The decision, applauded by the local community, removes the prior 50-year expiration constraint on their public use permit.
Jonathan Park, president of Olivet University, expressed gratitude towards the commission and community, stating, “We appreciate the Planning Commission and the County staff for their professionalism and collaboration throughout this process. We are also grateful to our neighbors who took their time to express their support. Their encouragement and confidence in our mission mean a great deal to us.”
The approval grants Olivet University a formal land-use entitlement for its expansive 1,000-acre site, marking a significant milestone in its operational history. This entitlement comes after a thorough review that included a public comment period where the university received overwhelming community support.
During the comment period, 30 supportive letters from locals, including business owners and community leaders, were submitted. Dennis Whitfield, vice president of the Community Hall Board, noted that, “The Olivet alumni, students and families have blended in with the Anza community and every year continue to support thru their personal participation of events and growth of this community. They are now an integral part of this community and their success is our success.”
Frank Miller, a long-standing resident, highlighted the unique role Olivet University plays in Anza, stating, “Regarding the proposed Plot Plan for Olivet University, the property in question is the only campus-like facility in Anza that can support a college, and my family and I consider education the highest and best use for the property.”
Community figures like library branch manager James Wyatt and local pastor Kevin Watson have also praised the university’s contributions. Wyatt referred to Olivet University as a “big supporter of the Anza Public Library,” while Watson highlighted its involvement in local food banks and church events.
Nathanael Tran, chairman of the Olivet University Board of Trustees, remarked that the commission’s decision ensures “greater certainty and stability for our students, faculty, staff, and the broader community as we continue our educational mission and future development.”
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
