A proposed gas station in South Fulton, a suburban area near Atlanta, has prompted homeowners to speak out against the initiative and its potential impact on their community.
Residents say the gas station not only poses environmental health issues but also contributes to blight, a concern for the overall safety of the neighborhood, according to WSB-TV.
Here’s what homeowners said at a protest, calling on South Fulton lawmakers to disapprove of the potential Chevron gas station on Stonewall Tell Road.
“It’s literally right across the street from our house,” Adina Lofton, who has lived on the street for more than 10 years, said.
Could the development lead to health issues for residents?
In addition to the list of concerns, one of the resources that many of the homes in the area rely on is groundwater. If the gas station is approved, it could lead to health concerns due to potential water contamination.
“People are concerned that carcinogens are going to start leaking into the well water,” Lofton mentioned.
She said that moving the development forward could also violate the city’s zoning ordinance.
“A gas station is not supposed to be within three miles of another, and not within 1,000 feet of a residence. Where they want to build this gas station is less than 1,000 feet from our homes,” Lofton explained.
‘We’re asking you all not to amend this ordinance’
According to the South Fulton website, the city’s zoning and planning regulations guide property use and development, promoting safe, efficient, and attractive communities for both current and future residents.
Lofton said the city held a public meeting in August about the proposed deal and believes local leaders will amend the ordinance to allow the development to move forward.
Attorney Brian Whiteside said a notice of intent to sue has been filed. He stated that if the development proceeds, officials could potentially violate federal laws.
“We’re asking you all not to amend this ordinance so it can stay within the three-mile limit and we can have a safe residence and a community,” Lofton said.
