Reginald Barnes urges Southfield council to address controversial oil change facility rezoning

Concerns over a controversial rezoning proposal took center stage at the Southfield City Council meeting on April 21, 2025, as Reginald Barnes, representing Empowerment Church and local residents, voiced urgent objections. Barnes highlighted the community's frustration over a proposed oil change facility at the intersection of Southfield Road and Silver Maple Street, which had previously been rejected by the council.

In a passionate address, Barnes questioned the planning commission's decision to revisit the application without proper community notification or transparency. He expressed disappointment over the lack of response to his earlier inquiries regarding the rezoning process, emphasizing that residents had invested in their homes based on the area's residential character, not anticipating commercial development.

Barnes raised critical questions about the legality and ethics of the planning commission's actions, asking whether the community had been adequately involved in the revived proposal and if the city council had been consulted. He urged the council to ensure that the voices of residents are respected and that the integrity of their previous vote is upheld.

The discussion underscores the ongoing tension between community interests and development proposals in Southfield, with residents calling for greater transparency and accountability in local governance. As the council considers the implications of this proposal, the community awaits answers that could significantly impact their neighborhood's future.