‘It’s become a huge issue;’ Voters to decide on future of proposed local Sheetz site

CENTERVILLE — The talk of a Centerville restaurant closing down to be replaced with a Sheetz has sparked controversy.

Epiphany Lutheran Church is doing what they can to make sure that doesn’t happen.

“It’s become a huge issue,” said Heather McIntyre.

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McIntyre has lived in Centerville for two years and said she has heard talk about replacing Elsa’s on Far Hills Avenue with a Sheetz.

In October, the city rejected plans for Sheetz to replace the restaurant, and now the major convenience store is suing Centerville over it.

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Epiphany Lutheran Church told News Center 7 in November they are worried it will cause a lot of traffic. McIntyre agrees.

“That’s my primary issue that is going to make it hugely busy,” said McIntyre.

Through a public records request, News Center 7 obtained a letter sent to churchgoers at Epiphany Lutheran Church.

The letter stated they were working to get people to sign a petition that would add two initiatives to the March primary ballot that would decide if businesses could sell carry-out alcohol. This would not affect restaurants.

“I personally, if I voted on that issue would vote no,” said McIntyre. She will get to do so in March.

News Center 7 stopped by the Montgomery County Board of Elections and got a hold of the two issues on the ballot. People would vote yes or no on allowing liquor stores or liquor agencies to sell carry-out alcohol.

“I wouldn’t have a problem with it but I’m not a drinker so it’s easy for me to say that,” said Marsha Roush, who has lived in Centerville for 27 years.

She said rather than opening up the Sheetz, the city could always use good restaurants.

Elsa’s will remain open until a final decision has been made.

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