DENHAM SPRINGS — The Denham Springs City Council will take up a packed agenda Monday night, with the most closely watched item expected to be an appeal from the owners of Mustard Seed Creamery, Inc., over the city’s denial of the business’s alcohol permit.
Owners Timothy and Tasha Levert are seeking a Retail Class A-R High, Restaurant Outlet Alcohol Permit for their location at 111 N. Range Ave. The request was denied earlier this year, reportedly due to concerns about the business’s dual use as both a restaurant and a site for church services outside normal operating hours. The Leverts have maintained that their establishment meets all legal requirements and that the permit is critical to their business model.
Council member Jim Gilbert told The News he supports Mustard Seed Creamery and hopes the city and the owners can reach an agreement. “Denham Springs needs these kinds of businesses and places,” Gilbert said. “As a Christian, the church is already under attack. We don’t need to put up barriers to worship or small business.”
The News contacted all members of the City Council for comment. Council member Lori Lamm-Williams referred questions to City Attorney Stephanie Hulett, who did not respond. As of Monday, August 11th, no other council members had returned requests for comment.
For previous coverage of the Mustard Seed Creamery alcohol permit by The News, click here.
To see our interview with Tim and Tasha Levert, owners of Mustard Seed Creamery, click here.
In addition to the appeal, the council will hear reports from city departments and consider several resolutions and authorizations, including:
Hazard mitigation planning — Adoption of a resolution recognizing the multi-jurisdictional hazard mitigation planning process and establishing a hazard mitigation planning committee.
Auditor compliance — Authorization for the Louisiana Compliance Questionnaire required by the Louisiana Legislative Auditor.
Infrastructure and utilities — Approvals related to the Brignac Well project, including an agreement with contractor L. King for substantial completion and inspection, a $109,250 change order reducing costs and extending the completion date, and payment of $24,581.25 to L. King Company, LLC.
City contracts and agreements — Authorizing the mayor to enter into a camera attachment agreement with Entergy Louisiana, LLC, a month-to-month contract with Public Storage for Christmas decorations, and a contract with SSA Consultants to conduct a compensation study for all departments except fire and police.
Surplus property — Approving the surplus of three police department assets: two hutches and a conference table.
