The Natchitoches City Council voted during its Aug. 24 meeting to modify a decision by the Natchitoches Historic District Commission regarding artwork installed at 123 St. Denis Street.
The appeal was filed by property owners Henry Cook Taylor Jr. and Deborah Lee Taylor following the Historic District Commission’s July 28 decision requiring the artwork to be removed within 60 days. The commission had determined that the installation was placed on the building without the required approval and permit.
During Monday’s meeting, the council considered the appeal and discussed the city’s existing ordinances governing work within the historic district, including the lack of specific regulations addressing murals and artwork.
The council ultimately modified the commission’s decision. Under the motion, the $50-per-day fine was changed to begin July 29, the day after the Historic District Commission’s July 28 meeting. The council determined the fine totaled $1,350.
The council also reversed the portion of the Historic District Commission’s decision requiring the mural to be removed. The motion approved the artwork in its present form and location, allowing it to remain.
The decision followed discussion among council members regarding the importance of obtaining permits for murals and other work in the historic district, while also recognizing that the city’s current ordinances do not specifically establish standards for murals.
Council members emphasized that the decision did not eliminate the requirement for property owners to obtain permits before completing work in the historic district. Several council members also said the city should address its existing mural regulations moving forward.
The council’s decision came after representatives of the Taylors, the Historic District Commission and members of the public addressed the appeal.