Issuing her first veto, Mayor-President Monique Boulet blocked a permit authorizing the construction of a new convenience store and gas station on University Avenue near Four Corners.
In a 3-2 vote in June, the Lafayette City Council approved a conditional use permit for the development sited in the location of a shuttered flower shop, despite a planning commission recommendation against it.
Developers and residents alike say Lafayette’s codes let down both groups by causing heartburn for residents and giving false hope to builders.
Residents in the nearby Oaklawn neighborhood vocally opposed the development, arguing gas sales would attract noisy and noxious vehicle traffic. In her veto message, Boulet echoed those concerns but suggested she would green-light the development without gas pumps.
“My greatest concern is not with the property owner but with the allowance for gasoline sales on the property,” Boulet said in a statement. “It’s important that we maintain the established character and quality of life within this neighborhood and this proposed development impedes that from happening. I encourage and support the development of this proposed business less the option to sell fuel.”
This is the second high profile development battle near Four Corners this year. Neighbors fought a convenience store planned for a vacant bank facility, and the City Council blocked the development in response. In that case, the developer successfully sued to overrule the City Council’s decision.