The Pine Bluff Planning Commission gave unanimous approval Tuesday to a man proposing to open a tavern at 315 E. Harding Ave., contingent upon meeting regulations and recommendations.
Curtis Rogers proposed opening a tavern called The Place in a building that he is purchasing.
Southeast Arkansas Regional Planning Commission Assistant Director Alex Koenig made the following recommendations. The property must have at least 10 paved parking spots and they must not be on a street; the parking area must be screened in compliance with zoning ordinances; the operators must have a license from the Alcoholic Beverage Control Board; and the Planning Commission has the right to reconsider if the owner does not meet these laws or if there is a public safety problem.
The business can serve beer and wine but not mixed alcoholic drinks; food is to be limited to snacks and sausages.
Planning Commission member Stephen Huselton made a motion to approve the measure as long as Rogers follows the recommendations. Lula Dickson, Leon Crumblin, Evelyn Blunt, Joe Clement and Huselton voted for the motion.
Rogers said he intends to open next week.
There used to be another bar at 315 E. Harding Ave., Koenig said.