Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Business Expansion Entertainment topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Board recommends approval for Karma Cigar Bar interior expansion; goes to council
Summary
The Board of Zoning Appeals recommended approval of special exception Z12E8-0425 to permit an interior addition and piano bar at Karma Cigar Bar; the vote was unanimous and the item will proceed to Town Council for final action.
The Town of Merrillville Board of Zoning Appeals on April 25 voted unanimously to recommend approval of special‑exception petition Z12E8‑0425 for Karma Cigar Bar, seeking an interior addition that would add rear seating and a piano bar at the business listed in the filing.
Attorney Jewel Harris Jr., representing the petitioner, described the application as an expansion of an existing, ‘‘thriving’’ business and said the interior addition would add amenities designed to enhance the customer experience. Harris said the petitioner plans to adhere to all alcohol and tobacco regulations and to use valet and overflow parking arrangements with a nearby lot during peak events.
Staff reported that the petitioner will remove 10 front seats and add about 46 seats in the rear, for a total of 66 seats on site, and listed a maximum occupancy of 152 with a 4:1 ratio used for occupancy calculations. Staff also noted provisions for 44–46 parking spaces on site, overflow arrangements with LEAPS, and that valet service would be offered for major events.
Board members asked about the type and size of events; petitioner representatives said planned events are limited, high‑end cigar and pairing nights rather than large concerts. No public speakers objected. A motion to recommend approval carried on a unanimous roll call; staff and the chairman reminded the petitioner the recommendation proceeds to the Town Council for final approval and that staff will notify the petitioner of the council hearing date.
