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Karma Cigar Bar cleared for interior expansion after council confirms parking plan
Summary
The council approved a special-exception request allowing Karma Cigar Bar to remodel its interior, expand rear seating and rely on overflow and valet arrangements to meet parking requirements; council approved 6-0.
MERRILLVILLE, Ind. — The Town Council on Tuesday approved a special-exception petition that allows Karma Cigar Bar to proceed with an interior remodel at 850 West 80th Avenue, increasing rear seating and outlining parking arrangements for expanded events.
Applicant Darren Shaw told the council the remodel will reduce front seating to 20 and increase rear seating to 46 for a total of 66 seats, with an overall maximum occupancy of about 152 people. The petitioner said the business will provide 44 to 46 parking spaces, use LEAPS overflow parking, and offer valet parking for major events through an arrangement with David Lasser.
Nut graf: The board concluded the addition will not impede orderly development and cited police and planning comments that there have been no recent complaints about the business. The council recorded a 6-0 vote approving the special exception after staff explained why the petitioner was required to return to the board for further expansion discussions.
Planning staff noted a prior condition from the Board of Zoning Appeals required the owner to demonstrate adequate parking if further extension was sought; the petitioner presented a parking plan and rear doors to access the additional parking. Police Chief Noussus said the department had no current calls or complaints related to the business and described the establishment as “laid back.”
Ending: With the council’s approval, Karma Cigar Bar may move forward with the interior remodel subject to compliance with town and state alcohol and tobacco regulations and any conditions imposed by planning staff.
