Planning commission approves rezoning request to allow liquor sales at Front Street restaurant

NATCHITOCHES, La. — The Natchitoches Planning & Zoning Commission on April 1 approved a rezoning request from Laurie Berry for Natagas Picnic Company, 524 Front Street, to add B8 zoning that would allow the sale and consumption of packaged and unpackaged liquor on the premises.

The director told the commission that Front Street contains a mix of zoning designations and that not every unit there currently carries VA zoning; staff brought the application forward because the proposed use requires the additional zoning. The director said about 35 to 40 mailed notices had been sent to nearby properties.

Laurie Berry, who identified herself at the hearing, told commissioners she wants to sell bottled wine for gift baskets, hold wine tastings and sell alcohol for catered events at the restaurant. Commissioners asked no substantive questions and proceeded to a vote.

Commissioner Lewis moved to approve the rezoning; Commissioner Du Bois seconded. The motion passed on a voice vote with all present saying “aye.” The director advised that if the commission approves, the rezoning will be introduced to the city council in April at 5 p.m. for introduction; the director said the council will conduct a final vote with public comment at a later council meeting, and that if adopted the ordinance would take effect about 10 days after final passage (the precise effective date depends on the calendar). The director reminded the applicant that public comment is generally accepted at the council’s final vote, not at the introduction meeting.

Staff recorded the commission’s approval for inclusion on the council’s zoning docket and said staff will forward the application package to city council for the scheduled introduction.