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Neighbors press commission to oppose proposed gas station at Maine and Palmer; concerns raised about traffic, safety and groundwater
Summary
Multiple residents urged the commission to oppose a proposed gas station/convenience store at Maine and Palmer, citing pedestrian safety, increased traffic, light and noise impacts, potential groundwater contamination and loss of historic neighborhood character.
A group of Mount Pleasant residents used the June 9 meeting's public comment period to urge the commission to oppose a proposed gas station and convenience store at the corner of Maine and Palmer streets.
Kathleen Martin, who gave the most extensive public comment, said neighbors were not aware of the planning commission review and had collected 63 written letters of opposition within 24 hours. She argued the proposed development would increase foot traffic, trash, vehicular traffic and idling near a mostly residential area and cautioned about spill risk near the Chippewa River. "Decreased risk doesn't mean no risk," Martin said, referencing assurances she said were given by the project's representative.
Other residents echoed those points. Patrick Lachance, who said he has lived on North Lansing Street for more than 35 years, warned the neighborhood would be adversely affected and said home values would fall. True Mashinsky and Dan Herrera described the neighborhood as a quiet, family-oriented area where increased cut-through traffic and additional curb cuts could raise the risk of pedestrian injuries and crashes.
Residents also questioned whether the site is appropriate in a neighborhood with older homes and families with children, noting three other gas stations exist within a half-mile and arguing the corner could be used for a use more compatible with the "gateway to downtown" character.
City staff noted a related public hearing on the specific planning application will be scheduled; commissioners acknowledged the public comments and advised that the planning commission process and public hearings are the appropriate venue for detailed review of special-use permits and site plans.
Action summary: public comment opposing a proposed gas station/convenience store at Maine and Palmer; commissioners noted comments and referred the matter to the planning/land-use review process where a public hearing will be held.
