Livonia City Council Rejects Sheetz Gas Station Proposal Amid Resident Concerns
In a recent Livonia City Council meeting, residents voiced their opinions on the proposed establishment of a Sheetz gas station and convenience store at the corner of Eight Mile and Newburgh. The council ultimately voted against the zoning change needed for the project, with a final tally of 5-2.
The evening was marked by passionate exchanges as community members expressed strong feelings both for and against the plan. Some residents argued that the convenience store would bring unnecessary traffic congestion to the area. “The fact is, we don’t need something that is going to bring high traffic,” stated one resident, highlighting concerns about increased disruptions in the neighborhood.
Conversely, supporters of the Sheetz proposal emphasized the potential benefits. “Sheetz could elevate the standard of gas stations in our community,” one resident remarked, suggesting that the presence of a well-known convenience store could improve the overall quality of local services. Another individual voiced frustration over the proposed location’s impact on their home, saying, “Where they are going to be turning in and coming out is directly aligned with my bedroom window. I’m going to have lights, 24/7, for the rest of my life.”
The site in question previously housed a Rite Aid, and the proposed Sheetz would replace two small local businesses along with the vacant building. With Sheetz planning to open 50 to 60 locations in Southeast Michigan over the next six years, they have already secured approvals in 13 other communities, including Romulus, where Michigan’s first Sheetz opened last August.
Livonia now joins Farmington Hills, which also recently rejected a Sheetz location. During the Livonia council meeting, opinions remained divided. Councilman Scott Morgan defended the proposal, stating, “This is not bad for the people of Livonia. People thought the Speedway going up at 7 Mile and Newburgh was a bad thing, and it’s not.” In contrast, another resident voiced concerns for children in the area, saying, “I don’t want it in my community. I don’t want it near the children. I think the density is too much.”
Despite the pushback, Sheetz remains committed to their expansion plans. Following the vote, the company released a statement expressing disappointment and acknowledging the community’s mixed feelings. They reiterated their desire to collaborate with other municipalities in the Detroit area to bring new jobs and innovative services to local residents. “While this decision is disappointing, we look forward to working closely with other Detroit-area municipalities to bring growth,” the statement read. They also mentioned the success of their Romulus location, which has received positive feedback from both customers and officials.
