PC to consider CUP for Main Street tattoo, body piercing parlor
By Peggy Kelly
Santa Paula News
Published: May 06, 2005
It’s been years since there has been a proposed business that caused any sort of controversy, but now some Main Street merchants are concerned that a tattoo and piecing parlor is seeking a conditional use permit to operate between two popular restaurants.
By Peggy Kelly
Santa Paula Times
It’s been years since there has been a proposed business that caused any sort of controversy, but now some Main Street merchants are concerned that a tattoo and piecing parlor is seeking a conditional use permit to operate between two popular restaurants. The Planning Commission is scheduled to have a hearing on the issue on May 10 at 6:30 p.m. The meeting will be held at City Hall Council Chambers, 970 E. Ventura Street.
The proposed tattoo and piercing parlor would be located at 821 E. Main Street, between Vince’s and the Chili Hut, two popular eateries located just east of 8th Street. Some merchants are wary of such an enterprise, not as much due to the nature of the business but rather due to its proposed location. In the mid-1990s a tattoo parlor - no body piercing was offered - was briefly opened on South Mill Street.
There has also been a concentrated effort to offer tattoo removal in Santa Paula, specifically targeted to ex-gang members who want no reminders of their former life. Although tattooing is often thought of as affiliated with gangs, both tattoos and body piercing are considered trendy among those who wish to make a statement, whether centered on art or independence.
“It’s just not a good idea for Main Street,” said one merchant, who asked to remain anonymous. “That type of a place is better around the corner somewhere...it just sends the wrong message to some people.” Several other merchants said they are neutral on the issue.
Assistant Planner Veronica Ortiz-De Anda said Tuesday she has not been notified of any concerns over the business that will occupy the approximately 600 square foot shop. Parlor operator Glen West of Ventura also plans on selling apparel at the store, she noted, and proposed operating hours have not yet been discussed.
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