Controversial Gas Station Coming To Marin County Town Ignites Heated Debate: Report

NOVATO, CA — Fierce opposition has flared up among local residents in Novato against a proposed Costco mega gas station with critics arguing that the project directly contradicts the community's environmental commitments, according to a report by SFGate.

The proposed 14-dispenser, 28-pump gas facility, occupying about 1 acre, would be built next to the existing Costco warehouse at 300 Vintage Way, close to a pediatric clinic and sensitive wetlands that stretch to the bay.

Despite Novato's 2022 ban on new gas stations and 2020 climate emergency declaration, a new Costco fuel facility will proceed because it predated the ban. The Planning Commission accepted the draft Environmental Impact Report (EIR) Monday and will vote on the final EIR and design later.

This project conflicts with the city's climate goals, especially since Novato's Climate Action Plan aims for a 40% emissions reduction by 2030, and transportation causes 64% of local greenhouse gas emissions.

Critics raised numerous concerns about the proposed Costco gas station. Sustainability Chair Pablo Paster argued the plan conflicts with climate policy due to projected CO2 emissions. Commenters noted the facility is expected to add 4,620 daily trips, and the vehicle miles traveled analysis was questioned. A teacher cited a "meaningful probability" of undetected leaks from the three 40,000-gallon tanks, while a climate activist questioned the economic sense given the rise of electric vehicles in Marin.

The Costco project has faced controversy since March 2021, the point at which Novato issued a use permit that was subsequently halted by a lawsuit. Novato's Planning Commission anticipates the final Environmental Impact Report (EIR) to be released no earlier than January 26, 2026.

Costco's Novato location opened in 1992, coinciding with the launch of the Vintage Oaks retail center off Highway 101.

Read the full story at SFGate.