files being stored on iCloud and not on my local computer

Hello hemgfz,

Thank you for using Apple Support. It's possible that you've chosen to automatically save documents to iCloud Drive and not your Mac. Take a look at the information and steps below to change this option:

You can update the settings on your iPhone, iPad, or iPod touch so that your documents automatically save to iCloud Drive, On My [device], or a third-party cloud service.

Go to Settings.

Choose to update the settings for Pages, Numbers, or Keynote.

Tap Document Storage.

Choose where you want to automatically save your documents.

Access iCloud Drive files from your iPhone and other devices - Apple Support

Let us know if these steps help. Be sure to include any other troubleshooting steps that you may have tried.

Cheers!