Rising Tensions: Why Some Maricopans Are Rallying Against a Beloved Las Vegas Gas Station Brand

Maricopa is on the verge of enhancing its gas station landscape, yet not everyone is in favor of the changes.

The Planning and Zoning Commission will assess a rezoning request for Terrible’s gas station, convenience store, and car wash during its upcoming meeting on Monday.

Representatives of the Las Vegas-based chain expressed interest in Maricopa last fall, officially reaffirming their intentions in April by resubmitting plans for a site at the southeast corner of Porter and Bowlin Roads.

As Terrible’s seeks approval from the zoning board, a group of concerned residents insists that the gas station is an unwelcome addition.

According to city documents, the developers request a zoning change to general commercial to accommodate the car wash. Currently, the parcel is designated for neighborhood commercial use, intended for local services within a half to one-mile radius, such as dry cleaners or basic gas stations.

The general commercial classification would broaden the allowable business types, expanding the service radius to five miles. This includes potential storage facilities and automobile service centers.

Terrible’s proposal entails a 5,500-square-foot convenience store featuring 10 fuel pumps, alongside a 1,700-square-foot car wash.

While some residents anticipate the arrival of the gas station as a boon for the east side of Maricopa, opposition remains strong.

City officials report receiving at least four letters from nearby residents expressing their dissent. Concerns include increased traffic, elevated pollution levels, and heightened crime risks.

Tammy Bowen, a local resident, voiced her concerns in a letter, deeming the project “unnecessary and unwanted,” citing fears that gas stations lead to issues like loitering and theft.

Bowen further criticized the potential disruption from a 24-hour gas station, claiming that it would negatively impact the quality of life in Maricopa.

Another resident, Danay Bell, urged city officials to reject the proposal, pointing to worries about traffic and safety risks for children attending the nearby school.

Despite local opposition, city staff have recommended approving the rezoning. They argue that the project will not adversely affect the area’s health, safety, or well-being, and will facilitate orderly growth.

In discussions at a neighborhood meeting, Terrible’s Real Estate Development Manager, Brett Griffin, addressed attendees’ concerns, echoing the points made in his follow-up emails.

Regarding light pollution, he referenced a study indicating minimal light escape from the property line. On noise, Griffin promised to consider sound-reducing technologies for the site.

To combat theft, he outlined measures such as close collaboration with law enforcement, reduced cash on hand, and the installation of surveillance cameras.

Griffin further assured that safety measures for children would be explored as the project progresses, highlighting planned pedestrian pathways for visibility.

Terrible’s plans include hiring 10 employees at the Maricopa location, marking its first expansion beyond Nevada’s borders, as stated in the agenda materials for Monday’s meeting.