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Farmington Hills council rejects plans for Sheetz gas station

Farmington Hills council rejects plans for Sheetz gas station
Farmington Hills council rejects plans for Sheetz gas station 00:29

FARMINGTON HILLS, Mich. (CBS DETROIT) — The battle over a Sheetz gas station in Farmington Hills continued for hours Monday night as the city considered the next phase of potentially approving the gas station.

When the meeting discussion finally wrapped up, Farmington Hills City Council unanimously rejected the Sheetz proposal.

Area residents had packed the council meeting Monday night, as dozens of members gathered to fight against the potential approval of a Sheetz on the former site of the former Ginopolis restaurant on 12 Mile and Middlebelt roads.

The vote took place shortly before 1 a.m. and the meeting adjourned shortly afterward. 

In the meantime, CBS News Detroit spoke with a few residents who opposed the gas station.

Residents speak out against Sheetz in Farmington Hills, Michigan 01:29

"I think the gas station is too big. It's a truck stop and it needs to be up north where our rural Michiganders can have some economic development and jobs there. It's just too big for 12 Mile and Middlebelt," said resident Pea Gee.

Some felt the development would increase crime.

"(The gas station is) 24 hours. We don't need that in a neighborhood like this," said Lloyd Banks.

Others who live near the potential development say it would be detrimental to their own livelihood. 

"The light, the noise. The lights 24 hours a day, cars starting, cars revving," said Chuck Rose.

Sheetz did not return CBS News Detroit's request for comment on Monday but issued a statement back in November:

"Sheetz is dedicated to making a positive impact in Southeast Michigan. More than just a store, Sheetz serves as a community hub where families gather for a meal and friends connect over coffee. Customers can also enjoy our full-service kitchen, free internet, free air, and indoor and outdoor seating. Each new store will create 30-35 local jobs, offering not just competitive wages but also exceptional benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, tuition reimbursement, and more. 

"Beyond providing great employment opportunities, Sheetz is deeply committed to giving back—our stores actively engage in the community with weekly food donations, support for local Special Olympics chapters, and other impactful initiatives. As we expand in the Detroit area, Sheetz remains steadfast in our mission to drive economic growth, uplift local communities, and make a meaningful difference every step of the way." 

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