Board approves Dollar General Market in Ford after mixed public feedback

The Dinwiddie County Board of Supervisors approved a rezoning request to allow a Dollar General Market on approximately 2.75 acres in the Ford village area, voting to accept proffers that limit certain uses and require brick facades and downward-directed lighting.

Planning staff said the site, which fronts Route 460 and Clay Street Road, fits the county’s Ford village development designation and noted VDOT spacing and stacking requirements for a commercial entrance. The planning commission had recommended disapproval by a 5–1 vote, but planning staff recommended approval with proffers.

Applicant counsel said the store would be a DG Market format and ‘‘provide more fresh foods as an option for customers.’’ Several residents — including Edith Dalton, who presented a petition with 309 signatures — supported the store as bringing needed convenience and keeping sales tax revenue in Dinwiddie County. Other speakers said their primary worry is staffing: they cited experience at the Sutherland store where self‑checkout and limited floor staff had produced poor service.

Board members discussed orientation and design; the applicant said the site‑plan review could address a building orientation that would avoid a blank brick wall facing Route 460. One supervisor noted the county had previously required design improvements at other Dollar General sites and said proffers are intended to ensure a better-built store.

The board approved the rezoning with proffers on roll-call vote. The applicant and county will proceed to site-plan review before building permits are issued.