Having recently become aware that property at the corner of Centerville Rosebud & Mink Livsey Roads was zoned C-1 Neighborhood Business District in years past and is currently the proposed site for a Chevron gas station and ExtraMile convenience store, we, the concerned residents of the surrounding communities are most eager to establish a dialogue with the developer (and the franchiser as necessary) to learn more about what the current plan entails and, most importantly, to provide a vehicle for sharing community input to protect the neighborhood’s residential character & fit as the project progresses.

Nearby residents were caught off guard and felt denied of any right to participate in decisions that directly impact their neighborhood when groundbreaking began for a commercial enterprise at this location. While acknowledging that the developer is not legally compelled to meet with us, we nonetheless believe that as neighbors and potential patrons it makes sense to foster community engagement to allay fears, minimize any battle damage, and maximize a more positive outcome for all involved. We are requesting an ongoing discussion between the developer and community representatives as details are put in place. We are asking for transparency in what is planned and that our community input should be considered before finalizing plans.

COMMUNITY DISCUSSION POINTS INCLUDE BUT ARE NOT LIMITED TO:

Environmental Concerns:
The proposed gas station raises legitimate environmental concerns for our community. Gas stations can contribute to air pollution through emissions from vehicles and underground storage tanks. Additionally, they pose risks of soil and groundwater contamination due to potential leaks or spills, which can have detrimental effects on both human health and the environment. Additionally, gas stations often generate noise pollution from vehicles entering and exiting the premises, external speakers, as well as from maintenance activities such as deliveries or repairs. Our peaceful neighborhood should not be subjected to unnecessary noise disturbances. The potential addition of a restaurant would also bring other environmental issues to consider (smells, waste, rodents, loitering, and increased traffic). We are aware that County regulations attempt to address these issues. Still, we request that the developer work with us in committing to going the extra mile with a creative mitigation plan to explore ways to minimize air pollution, noise pollution, and an expected increase in litter/trash and crime.

Traffic Congestion:
Snellville already faces significant traffic congestion issues during peak hours, which negatively affect residents' quality of life and commute times. The addition of a gas station could exacerbate these problems by attracting more vehicles into an already congested area. Speeding on Centerville Rosebud thru the Mink Livsey intersection has long been an issue in the area as well. We wish to explore the developer’s plans to address traffic concerns –for vehicle & potential foot traffic—to include the in & out, parking, any walkways, spaces for EV charging, and handling additional volume.

Decreased Property Values:
Research has shown that proximity to certain commercial developments, such as gas stations, can have a negative impact on property values in residential areas. This could harm homeowners who have invested their hard-earned money into their properties. There are many nearby gas stations in the area, but this one is unique in that it will be situated by itself completely surrounded by well established residential neighborhoods right next door. We petition the developer to consider our input with regard to the aesthetics and practicalities of the building & grounds—facades, signage, lighting, buffers, green space, parking, barriers, traffic flow, landscaping, et al – to better transition or blend in with the residential feel of adjoining lots with homes and neighboring subdivisions.

Security & Safety Concerns:
Gas stations are known targets for criminal activity due to late-night operations, large amounts of cash on-site, and opportunity for attracting loiterers, etc.. The potential increase in crime rates near residential areas should not be ignored. We ask the developer to consider specific security measures to lessen negative implications on public safety. We would like to discuss the creative use of cameras, lighting, staffing, fences & barriers, inventory offered, operating hours, etc. to curtail bad actors/crime.

This petition goes on record that concerned citizens are requesting an open and productive conversation with the parties involved in bringing this commercial development to 3524 Centerville Rosebud Road in Snellville, GA 30039. We ask that the project not proceed until there has been full disclosure with ample opportunity for public input regarding resolution of potential impacts on our community’s environment, traffic flow, property values and safety. We hope our collective efforts reflect & preserve our community values, while marking the beginning of a productive working relationship between this business and the community it serves.

By signing this petition, we request cooperation that our voices be heard, our concerns acknowledged, and our input considered as this project moves forward. We call for the developer to meet with the involved and concerned residents & citizens of this area for a public review to ensure this specific development in our neighborhood better aligns and is in keeping with the best long-range interests of our overall community.

Residents of Snellville & Environs
Centerville-Rosebud/Mink Livsey
Snellville, Georgia