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Shepherdsville highlights new jobs, housing and says ‘no’ to data centers, city staff tells council
Summary
City staff presented an economic update noting several private developments under way — Tractor Supply, a Marriott-branded hotel, restaurants and housing projects — and said the mayor and council are not pursuing data-center proposals, citing resident priorities and quality-of-life concerns.
City staff gave a broad economic update at the June 22 Shepherdsville City Council meeting, reporting multiple private investments and ongoing projects that officials say will bring jobs, housing and new retail to the city.
"Shepherdsville continues to receive development inquiries and investment interest," said Ms. Courtney, who provided the presentation. She listed projects including a Tractor Supply store, a Marriott-branded hotel under construction, expansions at the Fish House and Salt River Brewery, and housing projects such as Bratcher Estates and Helen Heights. Courtney said these projects and planned amenities — notably a proposed aquatic center and recent park and trailhead openings — are expected to attract visitors, increase lodging and restaurant demand, and support local jobs.
The presentation also emphasized workforce initiatives. Courtney described the 502-commute program with Kentucky and a Works, aimed at improving transportation to area employers such as Lowe's, Walmart, Riviant, GFS, McKesson and distribution centers clustered along I‑65.
On a potential point of controversy, Courtney said the mayor and council "are not actively pursuing any opportunities with data center development." She described that stance as the product of resident feedback and council priorities: the city is focusing on family-oriented retail, hospitality, and projects that the council considers consistent with long-term quality-of-life goals.
Why it matters: council members framed the update as evidence of regional momentum that supports future capital projects and revenue streams. Council members suggested the city should continue pursuing state-level programs such as Kentucky Main Street to access design assistance, historic-preservation resources, tax-credit support and competitive grants. They also highlighted transportation priorities such as a second Salt River crossing and a possible future highway exit to ease local traffic and support growth.
The update closed with a call for public engagement as officials refine infrastructure plans and evaluate development proposals. No formal council action was taken on the economic topics during the presentation; staff said they would continue outreach and bring specific projects, funding requests or agreements back to the council for approval.
