In a split vote at Thursday’s regular city council meeting, council members approved an application for a special use permit for a new bar and lounge to be built in downtown Marshall at 314 N Washington in the Paramount Theater building.
Company owner Robert West was present at Thursday’s meeting, formally making the request to the board. He described the business as an upscale bar and lounge that would cater to lawyers and other professionals with above-average incomes.
Council approved the permit after holding a public hearing on the application, with Council Member Leo Morris voting against the item and Council Member Reba Godfrey abstaining. All other council members present voted to approve the permit, which was then formally awarded.
West said the company would expect to cater to a maximum of 30 to 40 customers at a time, with high-priced hard liquor available to members of the community. He pointed out that the price of alcohol during weekly office hours would cater to an upper-income adult clientele and not create a “bar atmosphere” in downtown Marshall.
The business also won’t keep the bar’s usual hours, closing most nights between 11 p.m. and midnight, according to West.
In addition to the bar and lounge, West said the business would house a facility where local artists and photographers could exhibit and sell their work. The company would offer high-end artwork and unique and expensive gift options to cater to its high-income clientele as well.
“It’s something that’s not available anywhere really, in the area, and it will just draw more people downtown,” West said.
West said there are currently no real plans to change the exterior of the building for the business, stating it was his wish to preserve the theater’s history, including keeping the name.
Also in homage to the theater’s history, inside the bar and lounge, West said a large projector will show old movies at all times, which community members can listen to if they wish with wireless headphones available at each table.
Community and Economic Development Manager Garnett Johnson said 16 letters were sent to nearby businesses about the request, with no response received. Additionally, the planning and zoning board previously approved the application by a vote of five to zero.
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