Brook Park residents oppose Circle K gas station citing safety and legal concerns

The Brook Park City Council convened on April 16, 2025, to address several pressing community issues, primarily focusing on the proposed Circle K gas station and concerns regarding local healthcare services.

The meeting opened with public comments, where residents expressed strong opposition to the Circle K project. One resident highlighted that the council has repeatedly granted exemptions to Circle K, arguing that this undermines local ordinances designed to protect community interests. They urged council members to uphold the law and consider the implications of their decisions on public trust and accountability.

Tammy Peterson, a concerned citizen, raised alarms about Southwest General Hospital's frequent diversion of stroke patients due to staffing issues, emphasizing the critical nature of timely medical care. She called for an investigation into the hospital's diversion patterns, asserting that the community deserves transparency regarding its primary stroke center's capabilities.

Peterson also reiterated the community's concerns about the proposed gas station, particularly its proximity to residential areas where children play. She urged the council to prioritize public welfare over potential legal threats from Circle K, asserting that municipalities have the authority to make land use decisions that protect neighborhood character.

Other residents echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the potential negative impacts of a 24-hour gas station, including increased crime, noise, and pollution. They questioned the council's adherence to procedural requirements, particularly regarding the necessary consent from property owners within a 500-foot radius of the proposed site. Several speakers pointed out that the council had not secured the required signatures, which they argued should invalidate the conditional use permit application.

The discussion also touched on the broader implications of allowing such developments, with residents expressing concerns about the long-term effects on property values and neighborhood safety. They urged the council to reject the permit, citing a lack of compliance with local ordinances and the community's overwhelming opposition.

In conclusion, the council faced significant pressure from residents to reconsider the Circle K proposal and to address the urgent healthcare concerns raised during the meeting. The discussions underscored the community's desire for accountability and adherence to local laws, setting the stage for future deliberations on these critical issues.