The Natchitoches Planning & Zoning Commission voted to forward an application to rezone a property at 1538 Adams Avenue so it may operate as a short-term rental.

Commission records show the application, filed by David Perkins, requests rezoning of Lot 7, Block A of Adams Park Subdivision (including a portion of Adams Street) to allow a short-term rental use. Unidentified staff told commissioners the file meets the ordinance's requirements and that the office received no written opposition from neighbors in response to mailed notices.

Michelle Tobinbier, identifying herself as an agent with Better Homes and Gardens Grove Realty, said she represents the applicant. Tobinbier said Perkins and his family renovated the house and plan to use it for their visits, and that when not using it they would operate it as a short-term rental. She said Perkins had spoken with nearby residents, and that the packet includes a letter from neighbor Buddy Gahagan stating he has no opposition.

The chair noted uncertainty in the short-term rental ordinance's criteria for special-exception cases, saying, "I find no guidance whatsoever other than the fact that it states that these will ... be allowed in the municipal limits" and that each use "shall be considered an individual case and subject to approval of the city commission after a public hearing and recommendation by the planning commission." The statement reflects the commission's view that the ordinance requires individual consideration but does not provide detailed approval criteria.

With no one present to speak in opposition, the commission moved to a vote. The record shows Anita DuBois was marked as abstaining from discussion and voting. The motion "by Mister Lewis" to approve was seconded by Mister Johnson; commissioners responded "aye" on a voice vote and the application was forwarded for introduction at the city commission "on the twelfth," with the chair adding the item would be voted on later (transcript wording: "voted on on the 20 ninth").

The commission also noted practical details discussed by the agent: the property sits on a dead-end street, provides two parking spots, and abuts rental properties. Tobinbier said the applicants plan to return to the property within about three years. The city staff member told the commission the application, as filed, meets the requirements of the short-term rental ordinance.

Next steps: the application will be introduced at the city commission on the date the chair referenced; a subsequent public hearing and vote at the city commission are expected per the usual ordinance process.