The City Council of Commerce City convened on June 2, 2025, to discuss several pressing issues, with a significant focus on a proposed moratorium on new gas station developments. The meeting began with a motion from a council member advocating for a one-year halt on the approval of future fuel sales operations. This proposal was driven by concerns over the increasing number of gas stations in the community, which some council members argued could detract from the availability of grocery stores and contribute to health and safety issues.

The council member emphasized the need for a thorough study of the environmental impacts of gas stations, citing a weakening of EPA regulations and the necessity for local analysis. The motion aimed to allow time for the city to evaluate the cumulative effects of gas stations, particularly in neighborhoods where they are densely located.

Council member Douglas seconded the motion, highlighting community support for the moratorium due to concerns about food deserts in predominantly black and brown neighborhoods. Douglas argued that the city should prioritize attracting grocery stores that do not rely on gas sales, suggesting that the current trend of approving gas stations could hinder the development of diverse retail options.

However, the proposal faced opposition. Council member Ford expressed concerns that the moratorium could stifle commercial development, particularly for grocery stores that often include gas stations as part of their business model. Ford argued that the city’s high development fees were already pushing potential businesses away and that the moratorium would exacerbate this issue.

Further discussion revealed a divide among council members regarding the implications of the moratorium. Some, like Mayor Pro Tem Noble, supported the idea, citing the need for regulations to prevent gas stations from proliferating in residential areas. Noble pointed out that large convenience stores with gas stations could replace grocery stores, which would not benefit the community.

Council member Dukes raised concerns about the message the moratorium would send to potential businesses, questioning whether it would deter larger retailers like Sam's Club or Costco from entering the market. Dukes sought clarification on the specifics of the moratorium and its potential impact on future developments.

The meeting concluded without a definitive resolution on the moratorium, indicating that further discussions and considerations would be necessary to address the concerns raised by both supporters and opponents. The council's ongoing deliberations reflect a broader struggle to balance community health, safety, and economic development in Commerce City.