Starkville Contemplates Moratorium on Gas Stations and Car Washes
STARKVILLE – In response to rising concerns about the density of gas stations, car washes, and vehicle maintenance businesses, the board of aldermen is considering a temporary pause on new constructions and site redevelopments.
Mayor Lynn Spruill, leading this initiative, expressed her worries particularly regarding the influx of these businesses along Highways 12 and 182. She stated, “I think it’s just appropriate that we take a close look at that before we get inundated… It’s important we take notice now.”
The city’s Unified Development Code categorizes vehicle repair and maintenance businesses broadly, which includes car washes, towing services, and gas stations. Recent discussions on a local Facebook group have highlighted the pressing concern regarding the number of car washes in Starkville, particularly the new one under construction on Louisville Street, which will join at least two others on Highway 12.
During a recent City Hall meeting, the board unanimously approved a public hearing for a proposed 180-day moratorium on new or redeveloped vehicle maintenance sites, set for November 3. This moratorium would affect businesses pending zoning, site plan approvals, or building permits, but would not impact those that already have their approvals.
Spruill believes this pause will provide necessary time for the planning department to assess density issues and consider potential changes to the Unified Development Code. “I want them to take a look and see what is best for us because you just don’t know what’s next,” she stated.
Any potential changes resulting from this review would also undergo public hearing processes.
Additional Notes
In other business during the meeting:
- Devin Ammons Camp was appointed to the Historic Preservation Commission.
- Dolton McAlpin was appointed to the Starkville-Oktibbeha County Public Library Board of Trustees.
- Language in the ordinance allowing alcohol to be served at 10 a.m. on Sundays was updated to replace “light beer and wine” with “alcoholic beverages,” per state Alcohol Beverage Control recommendations.
