LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- A Louisville Metro Councilwoman said residents who want to keep the West Broadway Kroger open need to stop stealing.
Councilwoman Tammy Hawkins, D-1, is one of two councilmembers who questioned why the store was closing early.
Wednesday, Kroger issued an apology for closing the store early, but didn't provide a reason why it was happening.
Hawkins said she met with Kroger management and was told the store will stay open until 9 p.m., but people need to stop stealing.
“The (loss) prevention data is out the roof,” she said.
Her message is simple — if you want Kroger to stay, you need to pay.
"We are gonna need the community and people that come to this store to try not to take anything from this store,” said Hawkins.
Kroger would not confirm to WDRB News how much is being stolen, whether they plan to increase security, or if the early closings are the result of theft.
"We apologize for a service oversight. We have addressed with our team to welcome customers with open doors until 9 p.m. every night," a Kroger spokesperson said in an emailed statement.
Some who live in the neighborhood said they have a problem with the store's employees, and the way things are kept inside.
“It is the worst Kroger,” said neighbor Kelvin Alcon. “They don't clean, they don't care."
Alcon said the store seems understaffed and that people steal because either no one is watching, or they get tired of waiting for a register to open up, which he said is normal.
There are two Kroger stores in the city's west end, and both close at 9 p.m. Hawkins said other stores around the city close at 10 p.m., and a few at 11 p.m. She is asking for extended hours, but told residents there are programs available for those who need essentials.
"Today we have several community members and programs that will give you access to food so please, I'm begging to be here, we cannot go in here and rip this Kroger off,” she said.
Kroger has not made any statements indicating plans to close this particular store or any others in the area. In the meantime, Hawkins is asking the community to show respect.
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