The Planning Commission voted to approve a special use permit for a new gas station and convenience store on the vacant Walgreens site at Gull Road and Riverview Drive (PC2025.07).

Staff walked commissioners through the City of Kalamazoo zoning analysis, concluding the Community Commercial (CC) zoning and street types are compatible with a vehicle‑oriented use at this intersection. Staff said the submittal meets setback, impervious coverage and parking requirements and that stormwater, groundwater protection and Public Safety reviews will be completed during site plan review.

Robert Matko of CESO represented the applicant (7‑Eleven/Speedway). He said the 1.44‑acre plan maintains the existing curb cuts in similar locations, includes landscaping along road frontages, and removes a long‑vacant building. Matko noted a traffic impact study — reviewed by city traffic staff — that modeled a 2026 build year and concluded most trips would be pass‑by traffic, limiting net new traffic generation. He also said a requested variance to sell beer and wine was denied and that the store would not offer beer or wine sales.

Commissioners acknowledged a petition from nearby residents and asked detailed questions about landscaping, floodplain and underground fuel storage. Staff and the applicant said stormwater and tank installation details will be addressed in site plan review and Public Safety permitting. No in‑person or phone public comments were received during the hearing.

After deliberation, the commission took a roll‑call vote and approved the special use permit. The record shows commissioners voting to approve; staff will proceed with site plan review and required environmental and Public Safety checks prior to any construction permits.