San Bernardino City Council Approves McDonald's After Three Rejections

The San Bernardino City Council approved a proposal to build a 3,684-square-foot McDonald's restaurant with a drive-thru at 116 W. Baseline St. on August 5, 2026. The 5-1 vote reversed a June decision and followed two previous rejections by the Planning Commission. The project will occupy a 0.74-acre lot that formerly housed a Dollar Tree and a Checks Cashed.

Council members and supporters argued that the blighted corner required investment to prevent chilling further business development in the city. However, the decision faced significant local opposition, with 15 of 18 public speakers citing health concerns and advocating for higher-quality land use.

Opponents, including some council members, suggested the site would be better suited for a grocery store. The approval was finalized through a conditional use permit required for the drive-thru operation.