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Published on 06/30/1999 All articles from this issue

New homes eyed for old gas station plot

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By Wendy Marinaccio

Special to the Town Crier

The plot of a former gas station on the corner of Fremont and Grant roads may soon be transformed into a site for two new residences.

A Morgan Hill developer made an acceptable offer on the plot, according to Tim Anderson of Alain Pinel Realtors, which conducted the sale for owner Scott Ruegg. The lot is zoned for two single-family residences.

The county must do a soil test to determine if the lot contains toxins. Ruegg is willing to pay for any required cleanup, Anderson said.

The deal may quell any further city ideas about purchasing the property. Officials met at least once to consider buying the land.

The gas station lost its conditional-use permit last year after it was sold to a new owner. It was torn down last November.

Residents had strong feelings both for and against retaining the gas station. "There was a huge meeting," said resident Phil Menasce.

Supporters of the gas station appreciated the convenience of what Menasce called "a nice, friendly neighborhood business." Other residents disliked the noise and smell caused by the gas station.

Residents on neighboring Estate Drive were the most vocal. They had presented the city council a petition of 32 signatures opposing the station.

A gas station had been operating at the site since 1966.