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Planning commission votes 5–1 to recommend disapproval of Dollar General rezoning in Ford
Summary
The Dinwiddie County Planning Commission voted 5–1 to recommend disapproval of rezoning case PD‑24‑12, a proposed Dollar General Market on 2.75 acres on Clay Street Road, after debate over building design, dumpster screening and whether proffered elevations were sufficient. The applicant said it will provide alternative elevations for the Board of Supervisors to consider.
The Dinwiddie County Planning Commission voted 5–1 on Oct. 9 to recommend disapproval of rezoning case PD‑24‑12, a request to rezone a 2.75‑acre parcel on Clay Street Road to B‑2 Business General with proffers for a proposed Dollar General Market.
Planning staff had recommended approval, saying the proffered zoning classification and proposed uses were compatible with the Ford Rural Village Development Area plan. Staff also noted the applicant’s latest submittal shows a shared access easement and spacing that exceeds VDOT requirements (278 feet versus a 225‑foot minimum), which staff estimated could allow roughly 11 vehicles of stacking at the site entrance.
Carrie Hutcherson, representing the applicant (Ritz/Retzen Companies), said the company had proffered architectural elevations, use restrictions and a shared access easement to limit future access from Clay Street Road. "We're pleased to accept the staff's recommendation for approval of this case," Hutcherson said, and added the team would work on facade options and additional screening in response to commissioner feedback.
Several commissioners and residents pressed for more substantial architectural elements—particularly brick on multiple sides and better dumpster screening—citing the appearance and drainage problems at another nearby Dollar General. Resident Edith Dalton, who identified herself from 8021 Baltimore Road, told the commission the store would be a convenience for Ford residents and said she and her husband supported the rezoning. "The convenience of a Dollar General store to all of our residents ... is a plus for this area," Dalton said.
After discussion about whether to defer to allow the applicant to produce further elevations, Commissioner (speaker 8) moved to recommend disapproval to the Board of Supervisors. The motion passed on roll call: Mister Tucker — yes; Mister Simmons — yes; Mister Cunningham — aye; Mister Hayes — yes; Mister Harbaugh — no; Mister Titmus — yes. The commission forwarded PD‑24‑12 to the Board with a 5–1 recommendation of disapproval.
The applicant stated it will prepare additional elevations and work with staff and the Board of Supervisors on possible architectural changes before the case reaches the Board.
