Bullitt County Board Approves AMPM Convenience Store Site Plan on Highway 80 East

Stormwater management took center stage at the Bulloch County Planning & Zoning Commission meeting on July 15, 2025, as developers discussed the implications of a proposed residential development. The key takeaway? Developing the parcel could provide essential stormwater mitigation, a pressing concern for the area.

During the meeting, a developer highlighted that without development, the current stormwater issues would remain unaddressed. "The only way this partial stormwater mitigation gets any better is if you develop it," he stated, emphasizing that no one would invest in necessary infrastructure without a capital project from the county. This sentiment underscored the urgency for action, as the developer noted that leaving the land undeveloped would not lead to improvements.

The discussion also touched on zoning classifications, particularly the potential shift from R25 to R80. While some board members expressed support for the R80 designation, others raised concerns about the density and its alignment with the county's comprehensive plan. Ultimately, a motion was made to recommend denial of the current proposal, reflecting the board's cautious approach to balancing development needs with community concerns.

In addition to the residential development, the commission reviewed a conceptual site plan for an AMPM convenience store on Highway 80 East at Burkhalter Road. The staff recommended approval, indicating a positive outlook for this commercial project, which aims to enhance local services.

As the meeting concluded, the board's decisions highlighted the ongoing tension between development and environmental stewardship in Bulloch County, setting the stage for future discussions on how best to manage growth while addressing community needs.