The Leitchfield City Council overruled the recommendation of the Planning Commission and agreed to hear the first reading on the rezoning of the property owned by Bobby Salsman at 111 McDonalds Road.

During the March 22 meeting the council listened to the request of Jason Dennis, who wished to purchase the property and use it for automobile restoration, to change the zone from B-1 neighborhood business to C-1 commercial highway.

The issue was revisited during the Monday night meeting and the council agreed to the change.

The council was concerned that by allowing this zone change it may open the door for other types of commercial business in the residential area if the property were resold.

Councilman Steven Elder said he visited the area and there were currently several businesses close to the property.

“This property is closer to Highway 62 than I thought and there is currently a car lot close and a building where they work on cars,” said Elder. “This is not a typical residential area with all the businesses that are already there.”

The second reading and passage of the zone change will be held during the May 17 meeting.

In other business:

• The Babe Ruth Baseball Program will hold a formal opening day ceremony and include the American Legion on Memorial Day.

The council agreed to allow $500 to be used to improve the field and for the event that will honor veterans with the Legions Color Guard.

There are currently 44 13-15 year old boys enrolled in the county program.

• The Council announced a new swimming pool manager has been hired for the 2010 swimming season.

Kendra Childress will manage the pool with Jordan Hayes assisting her. Kayla White will be in charge of the concession stand.

• The city has hired a new police officer. Robert Jackson has transferred from the Grayson County Sheriff’s Department to the Leitchfield City Police Department. His first day on duty will be Wednesday, May 5.

• The council approved the purchase of the new accounting software that will be used by the city clerk.

• The council approved adding a second streetlight to the corner of HWY 62 and HWY 187.

• The council approved the proclamation to make May 16- 22 Public Works Week.

• The Council approved the resolution in support of the Utilities application for Rural Development loan/grant for Raw Water Intake Relocation.

• The city police department received approval for a grant in the amount of $3,500 from a Law Enforcement Protection Program (LEPP).