Proposed Milwaukee gas station on Burleigh Street raises concerns among neighbors
MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) — A proposal to reopen a gas station near Burleigh Street and Holton Street is drawing mixed reactions from neighborhood residents.
"This will help bring stability," said Marvin Walker, who lives in the neighborhood. "It will bring fresh food, it will bring jobs, more taxes. More taxes means better services. My concern is 24/7."
Ald. Milele Coggs held a meeting to address community concerns about the gas station property, which has been vacant for about two years.
Neighbors say the empty lot has become an eyesore and a spot known for trouble.
New owners purchased the property last year and are now preparing to renovate and reopen the gas station this year.
However, the owner's business license application proposes operating the store 24 hours a day. Some neighbors say that raises major safety concerns.
"Because we found out that 24/7 has a terrible record of attracting people that come in and don't give a damn," Walker said. "They come in from clubs and bars, so if we can eliminate it, that will help bring stability."
Most residents who spoke at the meeting said they are not opposed to the gas station reopening but want to see its operating hours reduced.
They said the intersection has been known for crime and they do not want the gas station attracting more trouble.
The owners said they plan to install 32 security cameras linked directly to the Milwaukee Police Department and have an armed security guard on-site.
"A business is successful if the communities are more involved in it," said Navneet Kaur, the daughter of the gas station owner. "It's for them, so we will definitely take that into consideration and propose new timings to oppose the 24/7."
The owners are scheduled to present their proposal Sept. 4 before the Licenses Committee.