City council narrows church-distance rule for liquor licenses after heated public hearing

Denham Springs — The city council on March 2025 voted to amend section 10‑102 of the Denham Springs Code of Ordinances to change how the 300‑foot restriction on premises licensed to serve alcohol is applied to houses of worship.

The amendment inserts language limiting the distance protection to buildings "exclusively used as a church or synagogue," rather than to any property that houses religious activity. Councilmember Gilbert moved to adopt the ordinance amendment; Councilmember Poole seconded. The motion passed on a 3‑2 vote.

The change drew more than an hour of public comment during a packed hearing. Local business owners said the city’s current wording creates uncertainty that discourages restaurant investment in the downtown antique district. Tim Laverne, a Denham Springs resident, told the council the revision would "restore the intent of the law to protect the church with clear language" and remove "unnecessary barriers to small business growth." John Cavalier, who owns a downtown business, said clarity will help prospective owners and investors.

Opponents, including several pastors and long‑time residents, said the amendment would effectively erase the 300‑foot protection unless churches stop hosting community activities. "The church is the only place where we can come to lean on our moral compass," said Reverend Deborah Kellen of Roberts United Methodist Church. She warned that removing the broader protection could "harm our…