Farmington Hills Faces Showdown Over Sheetz Development
Good evening, Farmington Hills! Mark your calendars because exciting changes are on the horizon. Sheetz, the popular 24-hour gas station, convenience store, and restaurant, is gearing up to present their development plans to the Farmington Hills Planning Commission. Their goal is to open at the site of the old Ginopolis restaurant, located at the bustling intersection of 12 Mile and Middlebelt roads.
Residents Rally Against New Development
However, not everyone is welcoming this new addition! A group of residents, known as Concerned Citizens Against Sheetz, is gearing up for a protest at the Farmington Hills City Hall before the commission meeting kicks off at 7:30 p.m. this coming Thursday, November 21. Their concerns are serious and multifaceted, pointing to potential issues such as violent crime, noise pollution, increased traffic, and various environmental challenges observed at Sheetz locations in other states.
Lloyd Banks, a spokesperson for the group, has voiced his fears about the risks tied to a 24-hour operation. He argues that with Sheetz being open long after other businesses have closed, it may become a target for crime, not to mention the potential for customers to loiter and create noise late at night. “We believe it’s just too close to residential neighborhoods for such an operation,” Banks said. He advocates for the site to be converted into a different restaurant instead.
Supporters Say Sheetz is a Step Up
Interestingly, not all the residents are against Sheetz. At previous meetings, numerous supporters have championed the chain, labeling it as a revitalizing force for a property that has been left to deteriorate for over five years. Proponents hail Sheetz for being a reputable employer and for offering delicious food options.
In defense of the proposed development, Sheetz has been actively engaging with community members to highlight its positive aspects. Nick Ruffner, the public affairs manager for Sheetz, reassured the public about their commitment to crime prevention and community engagement. “Sheetz serves as a community hub where families gather for a meal, and friends meet up,” he explained. He also stated that their advanced security systems and 24/7 security operations center are integral to safeguarding customers and employees alike.
Impressive Plans for the Location
Should the Planning Commission green-light Sheetz’s plans, the project will then head to the City Council for final approval. The company’s ambitious proposal includes the addition of six fueling pumps, operating as 12 fueling stations, alongside a spacious 6,100-square-foot convenience store and restaurant.
On the other hand, Sheetz has recently made its debut in Michigan by opening a location in Romulus back in late August. They have set their sights on expanding across the Detroit area, planning to add around 50 to 60 more stores in the next five to six years. Already, they have disclosed the locations for eight other planned stores, which include popular spots like Chesterfield Township, Taylor, and Warren.
A Promise of Local Jobs
One of the most promising aspects of this potential development is the job opportunities it will bring. Each Sheetz location is expected to employ around 35 people, with most of those positions being full-time. Local residents are hoping that hiring from within the community could contribute to economic growth.
As the clock ticks down to the upcoming Planning Commission meeting, Farmington Hills is poised for a vibrant conversation that touches on issues of community, safety, and development. Will Sheetz thrive in the community, or will the voices of opposition hold sway? Only time will tell!
