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Board approves special-use permit for cigar lounge on South Church Street
Summary
The Board of Zoning Appeals approved a special use permit (Z26003) for a cigar lounge at 1630 South Church Street after staff said the indoor, low-intensity use with required ventilation upgrades fits the commercial highway zoning; the applicant said no alcohol or food will be sold.
The Murfreesboro Board of Zoning Appeals voted March 25 to approve a special use permit for a cigar lounge at 1630 South Church Street.
Planning staff presented application Z26003 by applicant Mina Awad and described the tenant space (approximately 3,249 square feet) in a commercial-high (C-H) plaza, the requirement for mechanical ventilation upgrades to ensure internal air-filtration standards, and the applicant’s stated hours (10 a.m. to 9 or 10 p.m.). Staff recommended approval, finding the use a low-intensity commercial tenant and noting the site has adequate parking and is surrounded by other commercial and light-industrial uses.
"The applicant has submitted mechanical and ventilation plans to the Building Codes Department and the use is expected to function at a low intensity within this commercial district," Mr. Shackleford said, presenting staff’s findings and recommended conditions, which included obtaining all necessary permits and notifying planning staff of significant changes.
Applicant Mina Awad confirmed the business will focus on premium cigars and pipe tobacco and said the lounge will use a "state-of-the-art ventilation system" to limit odor and protect indoor air quality. Awad also said there will be no food or alcoholic beverage sales at opening, although she left open the possibility of nonalcoholic beverages in the future.
No members of the public spoke during the public hearing. On roll call, the board voted to approve the special use permit: Mr. Batchelor Aye, Mr. Tibbs Aye, Vice Chair Halliburton Aye and Chairman Young Aye.
Outcome: Z26003 was approved subject to staff conditions requiring necessary permits, code compliance and notification to planning staff if the tenant’s operations change.
Next steps: The applicant must complete required building-code reviews and secure permits before occupancy.
