Olivet University Enters New Stage of Growth and Development Following Unanimous Zoning Approval in Riverside

ANZA, CA — Olivet University is poised for a new era of growth and community engagement after securing unanimous zoning approval from Riverside County officials. The recent vote—affirmed by the General Plan Advisory Committee (GPAC), the Planning Commission (PC), and the Board of Supervisors (BOS)—marks a major milestone for the Christian institution and clears the path for expanded academic, residential, and research development on its Anza campus.

"This zoning approval lays the groundwork for sustainable growth—not just for Olivet, but for the entire Anza community," said Dr. Jonathan Park, President of Olivet University. "It enables us to increase enrollment, expand our educational mission, and introduce infrastructure and amenities that serve both students and local residents."

A Win for Higher Education and the Community

The rezoning gives opportunity to Olivet for improving the property into a world-class higher education campus, which may include new buildings for academic instruction, student housing, worship, research, and recreation. The university also plans to include hiking and horse trails, green spaces, and public facilities such as libraries and gyms, reinforcing its commitment to shared community value.

Beyond institutional expansion, Olivet leaders see the development as a catalyst for local economic growth. "As our student body grows, so does demand for local services—from restaurants and auto shops to hotels like the Cahuilla Hotel," Park noted. "We're also planning annual events that will draw in volunteers, visitors, and economic activity."

The zoning decision also supports long-term institutional sustainability by aligning with municipal planning goals, such as creating an "education corridor" and revitalizing underused rural land. With the new designation, Olivet is better positioned to access tax benefits and development incentives typically afforded to educational institutions.

Affordable, Rural-Based Education

Olivet's rural location is part of its long-term vision to make Christian higher education more affordable and accessible. "This is about education, service, and sustainability—not commercial gain," Park said. "We're building an inclusive, service-oriented campus that reflects our values and mission."

Refuting Mischaracterizations

Despite the overwhelmingly positive community response—over 50 letters of support were submitted with only three in opposition—recent media coverage by a local newspaper portrayed community sentiment as "mixed" and questioned the university's intentions.

Park pushed back on that narrative, stating, "A 50-to-3 ratio isn't mixed—it's decisive. The support we've received has been tremendous. We are grateful and humbled."

He also clarified that this particular designation was recommended by Riverside County itself, whom the University is working closely with, and does not signal a shift toward residential development. "We will use any new developments to provide for students' educational needs, including student housing, as we have always done. The entire campus will remain 100% dedicated to education."

Addressing Allegations and Legal Context

Responding to references in the article to legal controversies, Park reaffirmed that Olivet University has not committed human trafficking, money laundering, or visa fraud. Those claims, he said, stem from a journalist who is currently facing a defamation lawsuit from Olivet. That case is now proceeding in federal court, after the journalist's motion to dismiss was denied.

Similarly, a lawsuit by four former students was previously dismissed, and the plaintiffs filed for a stay after amending their complaint. The individuals were also defendants in a countersuit filed by Olivet for fraud and deceit. According to reports, they are also reportedly under scrutiny for abusing the T-visa system.

Park criticized what he sees as selective and biased reporting: "It's troubling when a reporter fails to include our side of the story or omits major legal setbacks faced by our accusers. That's not responsible journalism. Readers deserve balanced reporting."

Looking Ahead

With rezoning now in place and broad community support behind it, Olivet University is moving forward with plans to expand both its physical campus and its academic impact.

"We're excited to grow in ways that align with our mission and benefit everyone," Park said. "This is more than a zoning change—it's a turning point for Christian higher education in Anza."