Shepherdsville council approves rezoning for West Bullock Road parcel after debate over Dollar General

The Shepherdsville City Council approved Ordinance 025043 on second reading to rezone roughly 1.699 acres (Parcel 0360000013) along West Bullock/West Blue Lake Road from R-3 Residential to B-2 Central Business.

At the second-reading hearing the clerk read the ordinance language and noted the Bullitt County Joint Planning Commission held a public hearing (docket 2025Z-36) and recommended approval. Councilmember Bonnie Enloe sponsored the ordinance.

Council member Jennifer spoke at length before the vote, saying she was “not a fan of Dollar Generals” and that such stores can “create unhealthy food deserts” and “can attract crime because of their low staffing levels.” Her remarks emphasized potential competition with local businesses and limited fresh-food offerings.

Planning staff Emily pushed back on relying on that speculation for a zoning decision. “I don’t think that speculation on crime is related to — is the zoning appropriate for this area?” she said, noting the planning commission’s favorable recommendation and that no formal opposition was on the record at the commission. Emily also said the developer had agreed to dedicate a 20-foot easement to accommodate a potential future road widening and that the city would pursue a pedestrian crossing with the state where feasible.

Other council members and residents gave mixed input: some urged that the store would provide nearby convenience for apartment residents and had not caused problems in other local locations; others reiterated pedestrian-safety concerns because the site fronts a state route.

Mayor (presiding) and council members repeatedly urged that any factual claims about crime be submitted in writing so staff could assemble evidence for the record before future votes or related approvals.

After discussion Councilmember Bonnie moved to approve the ordinance. The roll-call was recorded as follows: Bonnie Enloe — Yes; Mike — Yes; Brad — Yes; Faith — Yes; Jennifer — No; Rob — statement recorded on the record. The presiding officer declared the ordinance adopted.

Next steps: staff will document any written fact-finding submitted by council members or residents and continue coordination with the state about potential pedestrian measures near the site.