We live in a quiet neighborhood treasured by many for its tranquility and family-friendly environment. However, a proposed plan threatens to turn our lives upside down. A gas station/convenience store is being proposed directly in our backyard. Located at the southwest corner of Old Collinsville Rd. & Milburn School Rd., this not only disturbs the harmony of our neighborhoods, but is also dangerous for our residents’ health.

Gas stations emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that are harmful to our health. According to one study by the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, living near a gas station could increase the risk of leukemia as children can be exposed to Benzene emissions, a component of gasoline associated with a range of acute and long-term adverse health effects and diseases, including cancer.

There is a growing body of research that point to adverse health effects as a result of living in close proximity to gas stations:

“Residential proximity to environmental hazards and adverse health outcomes” 

“Residential proximity to petrol stations and risk of childhood leukemia”

“Gas Stations Vent Far More Toxic Fumes Than Previously Thought”

“Vent pipe emissions from storage tanks at gas stations: Implications for setback distances”

“Small Spills at Gas Stations Could Cause Significant Public Health Risks Over Time”

California Toxicologist Letter to Petaluma City Council 9/16/2018 regarding proposed gas station with citations

In addition to health concerns, the construction would dramatically increase traffic, noise and light pollution in our previously peaceful neighborhood.  These factors have the potential to negatively impact the home values of those that live nearby, as indicated by research done in the greater Dallas area.  This is especially distressing for many residents in a time of rising costs.

Moreover, the construction of a gas station/convenience store at this location brings possible security concerns for nearby residents. With plans for alcohol sales, video gaming and hours of operation until 10:00PM (revised from 12:00AM by developer at Fairview Heights Community Committee Meeting 01/22/25), it creates an environment for potential crime-related activity.  According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Crime Database Explorer, the combined categories of “gas stations” and “convenience stores” ranks as the 4th highest location that violent crimes have occurred in the last two years (and the highest among places of business).  This accounts for approximately 5% of the combined violent crime classifications defined by the FBI’s Crime Database Explorer (data as of 4/15/2024; retrieved January 2025).

We acknowledge the importance of gas stations. However, building one in a residential area, especially as close as our backyards, is not the best solution. It would impact the quality of life for surrounding neighborhoods, creating potential health and safety risks.

We implore you to support us in stopping the construction of this gas station. Keep our homes safe, our air clean and our nights peaceful by saying no to this proposed plan. Please sign this petition to demonstrate your support for our cause.