Shreveport Residents Invited to Public Meeting on Proposed Hookah Lounge
Residents in the Shreve City area are preparing to voice their opinions about a proposed hookah lounge set to open along Shreveport-Barksdale Highway. A public meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, November 5, from 5:30 to 6:00 p.m. at the proposed site, giving neighbors the chance to ask questions and share their concerns directly with the developers.
Details of the Proposed Hookah Lounge
The business, Haifah Hookah Lounge and Café, is proposed for 1134 Shreveport Barksdale Highway, the former location of Gamers XP. That gaming business has since relocated to Shreve City.
City Councilman Jim Taliaferro represents the area and he sent KEEL News this statement:
I am far from an expert on this type of business. Therefore, I would rely on case studies of businesses and other cities and look at the pros and the cons. I would rely on the opinions and the expertise of zoning, and of course public opinion is important and I would also look at statistics regarding health related issues.
When Would this Hookah Lounge Be Open
Owner Muhtez Ghazawneh stated in a letter to nearby residents that “all music and entertainment will be kept to a low background level suitable for conversation.”
Because the property is currently zoned C-2 commercial, the business will need a special use permit to operate as a hookah lounge.
Concerns Over Location and Late Hours
The proposed lounge would be right next door to Podnuh’s BBQ, in the same building previously occupied by Gamers XP. While the area is zoned for commercial activity, residential homes sit directly behind the property, leading to worries about noise, parking congestion, and late-night traffic.
These concerns mirror objections raised earlier this year when a separate hookah bar proposal in Southern Hills—at Kingston Road and Bert Kouns—faced strong opposition and was eventually withdrawn. Many residents there doubted that a hookah lounge could operate successfully without alcohol and felt it wasn’t a good fit for the neighborhood.
November 5 Meeting Expected to Draw Strong Turnout
Given that history, city officials and community members expect a strong turnout at the November 5 meeting.
Neighbors are encouraged to attend the session, which will be held at the proposed location on Shreveport-Barksdale Highway, to learn more about the plans and provide input before any permit decisions are made.