Natchitoches P&Z approves special-exception for tapas restaurant in Mill District, sends rezoning to council

The Natchitoches Planning & Zoning Commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of an application by Brian Briggs to operate a tapas-style restaurant in the Mill District with a special exception allowing on-premises alcohol service.

Briggs presented a business plan and said the small-plate concept would bring new dining options and jobs to Mill Street. Donna, the planning director, told the commission the parcel is zoned B3 and Briggs is seeking only the special exception to serve alcohol; she noted the land is city-owned and that the council previously approved a similar arrangement for the Flying Hearts Brewery through a lease.

The commission’s discussion focused on procedural and statutory questions. Commissioners and the director noted that Appendix B of the city’s zoning regulations requires an application to be filed by the owner or lessee; Briggs told members he has discussed a lease with the city for about five months but does not yet have a signed contract. Chair and commissioners advised Briggs to secure any required lease and to meet with neighboring property owners before council consideration.

Neighbors who live across the Cane River from the Mill Street site spoke in opposition. One resident said the riverbank was recently cleared and voiced concerns about increased nighttime noise from bands and amplified sound, added vehicle and pedestrian traffic, lights shining into nearby yards, loss of privacy and customers lingering after closing. Brenda Melder, a retired educator, said Briggs’s stated target of 18–35-year-olds and references to college students raised worries about underage drinking and parking-lot safety. Michael Laborde, another resident, asked what measures will be taken to replant buffers and who will enforce the rule that 60% of gross sales must be food for a restaurant license in the historic district (a Tax Commission function, the director said).

Briggs used his rebuttal time to say he understands the concerns, that much of the activity neighbors fear already exists in the area, and that he intends to follow applicable ordinances and permitting requirements. He told commissioners he has been in multiple conversations with city staff and would comply with noise and lighting regulations.

Commissioner Duvois moved to approve the special exception; the motion was seconded by Commissioner Claiborne and carried by voice vote. The commission’s favorable recommendation will be introduced to the Natchitoches City Council on Dec. 8 and is scheduled for final vote on Jan. 12. The planning director said council action also will need to address any lease terms for the city-owned parcel.

The commission’s approval is a recommendation to the council; any lease of the city-owned property and final licensure for alcohol remain subject to later public hearings and approvals.