Let's finally get the Costco Gas Station built

As a Kensington resident for the past forty years, and 12 in Kensington Heights,  I strongly support the Wheaton Costco gas station and I want to comment on Esther French’s recent posting, “Costco Gas Station Dominates Zoning Amendment Testimony.”

The thought of having a Costco gas station in my backyard is very appealing to me. I look forward to the day when I don’t have to drive out of my way for affordable gas, and I think the current proposed ZTA is nothing short of adding bureaucracy to an already bureaucratic system.

As we heard at the Hearing on Tuesday, I believe that the opponents to this gas station are making a lot of assumptions that are either not accurate, or based on irrelevant information.  They are relying on studies that were done internationally, not on the specific site. Their assumptions are not based upon fact and have no relevance to the proposed site.

There is no justification for the distance ban.  Costco has done their due diligence, and the science shows that the distance ban isn’t necessary.

Years ago, where the current Wendy’s restaurant is – there was a gas station, and I recall it being a rather large station.  That ga station was only about 200 feet from the proposed gas station.  So why all this fuss now?  Why didn’t my neighbors complain years ago? Esso was not a community partner.  They didn’t add any value to our neighborhood, nor did they go above any environmental regulations.  Costco has indicated that they not only do they have plans to put up a green screen, but they are also adding additional vegetation between the station and our community. 

You can see why I am puzzled that this ZTA was introduced.  Why are our County Council members trying to stop a good corporation from doing business in the County? 

I look forward to the day when Wheaton Mall and the surrounding areas are revitalized. I can see people walking through the shops, eating in local restaurants and enjoying a town that I am proud to call my home.