The Ohio Supreme Court heard arguments on Wednesday regarding a proposed development by Sheetz in the City of Centerville, centering around a plan to build a gas station at the site of the former Elsa’s restaurant along Far Hills Avenue. This development has faced significant opposition from city leaders, who question its suitability in the area.
The legal proceedings stem from a civil lawsuit filed by Sheetz against the city and other involved parties, which calls for the company to be allowed to pursue separate claims for damages. However, the city argues that Sheetz has missed the deadline for filing these claims.
Earlier reports indicated that a ruling from Montgomery County Court had previously determined that the city should not have rejected Sheetz’s building application. Following this ruling, Centerville escalated the matter to the Second District Court of Appeals, which upheld the county’s ruling and mandated that the city comply. In December, Centerville filed an appeal with the Ohio Supreme Court, contesting this decision made by the Appeals Court.
City officials assert that the decision to deny the Sheetz proposal was backed by a unanimous vote from the city council, citing concerns that the project did not align with the surrounding area’s characteristics as stipulated in their unified development ordinance.
As the case continues to unfold, Sheetz’s attorney noted that a decision from the court may take several months. News Center 7 will provide ongoing coverage of this development as it progresses.