Still No Gas Station for Oakland Township

The Oakland Township Planning Commission unanimously voted not to recommend the Planned Unit Development amendment proposed Tuesday by the owners of Country Creek Commons.

The amendment, which has several times since last June, included the proposed addition of a veterinary clinic and animal grooming facility, a new electronic sign at the corner of Adams and Silver Bell roads, special permits to host events such as blood drives, and a new Kroger gas station with four pumps.

Several residents at Tuesday night's meeting expressed concern over the proposed amendment, saying they like Oakland Township the way it is and don't see the need to add anything – especially a gas station – to Country Creek Commons.

Members of the Planning Commission also expressed concern over several aspects of the amendment, which was presented as an "all-or-nothing kind of package," said Township Planner Larry Nix.

"I don't like putting it along Silver Bell," Commissioner Jim Carter said of the proposed Kroger gas station. He believes it will be hard to conceal the gas station behind the berm on the northwest corner of Adams and Silver Bell roads, even with additional landscaping.

"It's like me hiding behind Barb," said Carter, motioning to the petite commissioner, Barb Wolak, a few seats away. "You're still going to see me."

Commissioner Janine Saputo added, "I don't know if I would fully endorse that type of exterior on this type of development."

The commissioners were also unsure of the proposed electronic sign, which would scroll through the names of the businesses within the Country Creek Commons shopping complex. It would also violate current zoning ordinances that prohibit electronic signs within the township.

"Can you get comfortable with an electronic sign?" asked Carter. "Do we open up a can of worms?"

"I think a scrolling sign can be a distraction to drivers," added Commissioner James Foulkrod.

After nearly two hours of discussion and public comments, all of which were against the amendment, Saputo moved to deny recommendation of the amendment. The motion was seconded and passed unanimously.

The township Board of Trustees will make the final decision to approve or deny the development amendment, though trustees will take the Planning Commission's recommendation into consideration.