Tallahassee residents rally against Circle K gas station near homes

The City Commission Meeting held on March 26, 2025, in Tallahassee, Florida, focused heavily on community concerns regarding the proposed Circle K gas station at the intersection of Waiolani Boulevard and Dempsey Mayo Road. Residents expressed significant apprehension about the project's proximity to residential homes, with gas pumps and underground tanks planned just 60 feet away. Concerns raised included potential health risks from vapor intrusion, groundwater contamination, excessive lighting, noise, and increased traffic.

Several residents, including John Durie and Laura Durie, urged the commission to take action, recalling a previous unanimous vote in October that explored three strategies to halt the development: repurchasing the land, land swapping, or using eminent domain. They emphasized that Circle K has not yet received final approvals for the project, indicating that the city still has the opportunity to intervene.

The commission heard from multiple speakers who reiterated the need for a zoning ordinance to create a minimum 500-foot buffer between gas stations and residential areas. They called for a temporary moratorium on gas station permits while public health and zoning concerns are reviewed. Residents expressed disappointment over the lack of concrete action since the commission's previous commitments, with many feeling that their health and safety were at risk.

In addition to the gas station discussion, the meeting also addressed the Tallahassee Police Department's (TPD) collaboration with ICE under the 287(g) agreement. Several speakers voiced their opposition to this agreement, arguing that it fosters mistrust within immigrant communities and could lead to racial profiling. They urged the commission to terminate the agreement, emphasizing that it is not legally required for the city to participate.

The meeting concluded with a call for the commission to uphold its promises to the community and take decisive action on both the gas station proposal and the ICE collaboration. Residents left the meeting hopeful for a response that prioritizes their health and safety, as well as the integrity of their community.