Written by Nick Luzi
San Diego County has lost approximately 100,000 jobs in 2020 due to the COVID-19 lockdowns. And many parts of East County have been hit hard by business shutdowns.
With that being said, Republican San Diego County Supervisor Joel Anderson was happy to announce the approval of a long-term lease of County-owned property near the Gillespie Field Trolley station for an Amazon e-commerce distribution center.
“This is such great news,” said Supervisor Anderson. “For many, many years, we have worked tirelessly to develop the business potential at Gillespie Field.”
Amazon’s distribution center is expected to create 400-500 jobs in the East County region. The City of El Cajon’s Community Development Department is working with Chesnut Properties on a proposed site plan for the center. The $21 million lease, paid for by the SGCLMC-Weld Investment Company, will allow Amazon.com to use the site as a “last mile” distribution center, leading to the decrease of delivery vehicles using roadways, quicker deliveries, and a decrease in pollution.
The City of El Cajon has approved construction and has committed to several environmentally sustainable actions for the site. These actions include the supply of onsite renewable energy and electric vehicle charging stations.
“Today’s action is an important first step in bringing good paying jobs to East County,” said Anderson. “A community that has been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. I am confident this lease will serve as a springboard for future economic growth as business leaders recognize that East County is open for business!”
Supervisor Anderson also conducted a poll asking residents their standpoint on the lease. Anderson received a total of 800 responses, 98% of which were in support of the distribution center.
Photo via Dustin Dwyer/Michigan Radio
