Council indefinitely postpones Sheetz PUD after robust public comment on traffic and local business impacts
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Summary
Following public hearing testimony both opposing and supporting a proposed Sheetz gas station and convenience store, the council voted to indefinitely postpone the Skok and Gold planned unit development application at the applicant's request; residents raised congestion, character and small-business concerns while rideshare drivers emphasized 24-hour service needs.
The Sterling Heights City Council opened a public hearing on a planned unit development application by Skok and Gold for a proposed Sheetz gas station, convenience store and fast-food drive-through on approximately 2.6 acres at the southeast corner of Metropolitan Parkway and Mound Road (PPUD 25‑0003). City Planner Dr. Jake Parcel told the council the applicant requested an indefinite postponement because revised plans and a formal PUD agreement had not been completed.
Residents and local business owners filled the public comment period with sharply divided testimony. Robin McGregor said a petition opposing Sheetz had been signed by residents and urged the council to preserve the city’s character, arguing the national chain would harm local businesses. “67 34 people have signed a petition stating that they don't want Sheetz for numerous reasons: congestion, traffic, the community character,” McGregor said on the record.
Local business owners and gas-station operators warned about competitive impacts and traffic. Tarek Gayer, who said he owns a gas station in Sterling Heights, urged caution and argued high-volume sites can draw traffic and affect local corner businesses. Rafi Alsha, who said he owns a 24-hour station in the city, described the business as a local, family-run operation and emphasized the role of current local stations in serving residents overnight.
Other public speakers pointed to benefits for late-shift workers and rideshare drivers. Sean Weber, a rideshare driver, called the site “support infrastructure for the gig economy,” saying overnight access to restrooms, hot food and fuel matters for safety and service continuity.
After public comment and staff explanation of procedural steps, Councilmember Radke moved to indefinitely postpone the application by Skok and Gold for the planned unit development allowing a gas station, convenience store and drive-through as requested by the applicant. The motion was supported and carried by voice vote. Dr. Parcel said that if the project returns it would likely be sent back to the Planning Commission for review and re‑notice to residents.
