A circuit clerk judge has sided with the Putnam County Commission regarding a controversial rezoning amendment that would allow a distribution center to be built in Fraziers Bottom. In December 2023, commissioners approved rezoning of a 36-acre tract of land along Route 817, making it a high-density commercial district.
The vote was made despite opposition from residents of the rural community who cited concerns including traffic, excessive noise and lighting, pollution and diminishing property values. Records say the move would allow a distribution center – spanning more than 120,000 square feet and operating 24 hours a day – to be built on the land. A decision by Judge Joseph Reeder stated the rezoning request is a legislative matter that was legally approved by the commission. The order stated petitioners had no evidence nearby property values would be negatively impacted by the rezoning.