A significant decision was made at the Newport News Planning Commission meeting on August 6, 2025, as the commission unanimously approved a conditional use permit for TaylorSmoke, a cigar lounge, to expand into a new location. This move comes after two years at their current site, where they have not received any complaints from residents or tenants.

The new establishment will not only serve as a cigar lounge but will also operate as a restaurant, a transition that sparked questions among commissioners regarding the nature of the business. The current location will be repurposed into a wine bar, with hours set to close earlier than the new venue, which will maintain the same operational hours as the lounge.

Latasha Beanie, the owner of TaylorSmoke, emphasized the upscale nature of her business, catering primarily to an older clientele seeking a relaxed environment. She noted the need for more space to accommodate locker members and improve service flow. The new location will feature a designated smoking area, ensuring compliance with health regulations.

The commission's approval was met with no opposition from the public, and the owner expressed hopes to open the new venue as soon as possible, pending the completion of necessary permits. The unanimous vote, with all eight commissioners in favor, marks a pivotal step for TaylorSmoke as it seeks to enhance its offerings in Newport News.