City limits oil drilling to industrial areas

SOUTHFIELD (AP) — A Detroit suburb has approved an ordinance that would allow oil and gas wells only as a special use in industrial areas.

The Southfield City Council adopted the zoning change Monday in response to a company’s plan to explore drilling on land owned by a church. 

Mayor Ken Siver says oil and gas wells “have no place” in Southfield neighborhoods.

Separately, the city is suing Jordan Development, which was granted a state permit to drill at Word of Faith International Christian Center. 

A judge recently signed a temporary order that prevents any drilling work. 

The church says any money that comes from the project would be used for good works.