Planning Commission Recommends Approval for Proposed Gas Station at Henley and 11 Mile with Conditions

The City of Berkley Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval Aug. 26 of a special land use application to reopen a former gas station on the corner of Henley and 11 Mile, with conditions. The commission’s recommendation is subject to a required variance from the Zoning Board of Appeals for a deficient front-yard setback at the pump islands and several site conditions the commission set. The commission voted to forward the applicant’s sketch plan to city council with conditions intended to reduce impacts on nearby residences and the right-of-way. Commissioners emphasized lighting controls, placement of landscaping or barriers along Henley, and submission of a revised sketch plan for administrative review. Kristen, Community Development staff, told the commission the property sits in the Flex District and previously functioned as a gas-and-service station but lost its nonconforming status after being vacant for more than two years. She…