Locals Push for Removal of Disney Lagoon, Citing Environmental Consequences
Nestled in the Coachella Valley of California, a major Disney controversy is brewing. Back in 2022, Disney revealed one of their most ambitious plans to date: a series of living communities built across the United States that would bring the magic of Disney to residential areas. The first of these “Storyliving” areas was selected to be built in the remote and quiet area of Rancho Mirage.
Now, the planned construction of the Cotino Storyliving community is causing a significant stir among local residents expressing deep concerns about its environmental and social impact. When completed, the ambitious project aims to create a luxurious, self-sustaining neighborhood centered around a massive 24-acre lagoon.
With the first residents set to move in in 2025, Disney has no time to waste. However, the development is already drawing criticism for its potential effects on the tranquility of the surrounding area.
Related: After Backlash, Disney Renames Another “Racially Offensive” Attraction
Local Residents Voice Their Concerns
Residents of Rancho Mirage are worried about the influx of commotion and pollution that the new community might bring. Mark Wolpa, a long-time local, shared his discontent with the Los Angeles Times, emphasizing the stark contrast between the area’s current peaceful environment and the anticipated disruption.
“Rancho Mirage is quiet, peaceful, and friendly, but Cotino’s bringing pollution, commotion, and chaos to an area that didn’t want it.”
His concerns extend to the environmental impact of the development, particularly the construction of the lagoon in a region known for its water scarcity. Wolpa, who highlighted the region’s historical struggles with drought, expressed frustration over the perceived contradiction between local water conservation efforts and the development’s lavish water features.
“We had tight restrictions on water usage at the time. Everyone was ripping out their yard and replacing it with artificial grass. And meanwhile, I started seeing signs for a massive lagoon. It’s still a desert, and water is still a precious resource. To think about having a lagoon here just feels wasteful.”
Environmental Impact and Wildlife Concerns
The environmental implications of the Cotino development are not limited to water usage. Another local resident, Bill Miller, is also vocal about his concerns and fears that the construction will lead to the displacement of local wildlife.
“Critters are being pushed out. Birds, bees, butterflies, rabbits, lizards, roadrunners — none of these are considered when the landscaping goes in.”
Miller’s concerns reflect a broader worry among locals about the loss of natural habitats and the disruption of the region’s delicate ecosystem. The development’s impact on local wildlife and natural landscapes has been a key point of contention, with many residents questioning the balance between progress and environmental stewardship.
The Cotino Storyliving Vision
Despite the backlash, Disney presents the Cotino Storyliving community as a forward-thinking project designed to offer a high-quality, sustainable living experience. The 24-acre lagoon is planned to serve as a central feature, with the development also promising amenities such as walking trails, parks, and community spaces aimed at fostering a vibrant, connected community.
Disney has emphasized its commitment to incorporating sustainable practices in the development process. However, critics argue that these assurances are insufficient, given the scale of the project and the significant concerns raised by local residents.
This isn’t the only controversy that the area has received. Earlier this year, fans called out one area of the residential community for being named the Laughing Place Ranch, referencing the controversial film Song of the South.
As construction continues, the debate over the Cotino Storyliving community’s impact on Rancho Mirage and the surrounding areas remains a contentious issue. Residents continue to voice their concerns about the environmental and social implications of the development, while proponents argue for the benefits of the project and its potential to enhance the local economy.
As the project moves forward, it will be crucial for developers, local authorities, and community members to engage in ongoing dialogue to address the concerns and find solutions that balance growth with environmental responsibility. What do you think about Cotino?
