What to know about Modesto expansion plan as it sparks opposition from multiple groups

The Modesto City Council voted 5-1 to advance the most aggressive of three land use options for the city’s 2050 general plan, drawing opposition from some Wood Colony residents, Salida leaders and farmland advocates. The decision sets up potential further fights over expansion into historic farming areas and unincorporated communities as the city seeks to reverse decades of stagnant growth.

Original reporting by Ken Carlson:

• Modesto council chooses contested plan for growth. What was said and what’s next?
• Modesto growth plans could spark another fight with Wood Colony residents
• Modesto leans toward most aggressive growth plan. How much population is proposed?
• Modesto doesn’t vote yet on growth options. Some want to capture more tax dollars
• Modesto plan could open door to annexation of large business park area in Salida

Here are key takeaways:

• The council selected an option that adds 12,240 acres to Modesto’s sphere of influence, extending the boundary north to Ladd and Patterson roads. Councilmember Chris Ricci dissented and Councilmember Rosa Escutia-Braaton was absent.

• City staff originally recommended an even larger option, adding 13,860 acres, which could accommodate up to 53,783 residential units and push Modesto’s population beyond 385,000 by 2050.

• Wood Colony, an Old German Baptist farming settlement dating to 1869, is again a battleground. Councilmembers Nick Bavaro and Jeremiah Williams asked staff to put a piece of Wood Colony between North Avenue and Beckwith Road back on the map for study.

• Salida leaders say the plan would absorb a third of the Salida Community Plan, including the Landmark Business Park. “We will fight tooth and nail to stop this from happening,” said Karen Gorne, chairperson of the Salida Municipal Advisory Council.

• City officials argue Modesto’s general fund lags behind peers — $153.3 million in 2022 vs. $311 million in Bakersfield and $255.8 million in Stockton — and that growth is needed for revenue, jobs and housing affordability.

• Critics, including former Mayor Garrad Marsh and Voters for Farmland’s Denny Jackman, question the demand, citing California’s negative population growth and slowing birth rates. The group has discussed a 2028 ballot initiative to make Kiernan Avenue the northern city limit.