MARIETTA, GA (CBS ATLANTA) -
Marietta residents against a proposed RaceTrac held signs and yelled, "No RaceTrac" outside city hall on Wednesday. They admitted they were not optimistic the city council would vote against the proposal.
Last year, RaceTrac first proposed building a 24/7 gas station at the intersection of Powder Springs Road and Murray Circle. On Wednesday, they offered to add conservation land at the back of the property to seal the deal.
Murray Circle leads into a quiet neighborhood. Residents argued re-zoning the land for RaceTrac would bring traffic, crime and unwanted light in the early morning hours.
In a five to one decision, the Marietta City Council voted against RaceTrac. Council members said the 24-hour gas station was not a good fit for the neighborhood.
"I do owe the city council an apology. I made a statement that they didn't care and they showed they obviously care," said Ron Ridgeway, resident.
"I was so happy they listened to our concerns," said Alison Lanier, resident.
The owners of the property left quickly without saying anything.
Alison Lanier, who started the fight last year to save her neighborhood, said, "Keep at it. Your voice really does make a difference."
Members of the community said they are not opposed to a business on the property, as long as it fits in with the neighborhood and is not open 24 hours.
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