Plans to restrict number on 'dollar stores' in New Orleans East endorsed by planning commission [View all]

Plans to curb the number of discount stores in New Orleans East and elsewhere in the city got a boost last week from the City Planning Commission, which agreed to put the potential restrictions in front of the City Council for review.

The proposed rules, which were approved 5-0 by the commission, would put new spacing restrictions on stores such as Dollar General and Family Dollar as a way to stop the retail chains from proliferating and crowding out other food sellers.

Under the rules, any new discount store in New Orleans East, Algiers and parts of Gentilly could not be built within two miles of another such store. Elsewhere in the city, new discount stores must be at least one mile from existing stores. The rules would also require store operators to clean their premises more often.

The measures are aimed at blocking the spread of the discount stores and encouraging healthier food options. A study conducted by the commission's staff last year found that the presence of "dollar stores" dissuades full-line grocers from opening in some neighborhoods.

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