11-23-2005 Council Agenda - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

MINUTES PLANNING COMMISSION NOVEMBER 10, 2005 & CUP FOR TATTOO PARLOR — 2760 LAKESHO AVENUE — BRANDON HEFFRON the General Business District (B -3) and a Conditional Use Permit allowing Beloved Ink to operate a tattoo parlor at 2760 Lakeshore Avenue. RE Brandon Heffron appeared before the commission and reported that he would like to operate a tattoo studio at 2760 Lakeshore Avenue. Heffron reported that the tattoo studio would be operated in a Christian atmosphere and that he would be running a ministry from the studio. Heffron reported that he has been a tattoo artist for the past 8 years working for other studios, and would like to open his own business. Rheaume asked Heffron about his experience and education. Heffron again noted that he has worked as a tattoo artist for the past 8 years, He indicated that he is a member of the Alliance of Professional Tattoo Artists and has been educated in disease control. He further indicated that he has never had any problems with his work. Rheaume asked about the ministry that Heffron is planning. Heffron reported that he is a member of the Living Word Christian Center and is a born-again Christian. Heffron reported that in doing his work as a tattoo artist, he will also have the opportunity to outreach to people. Heffron reported that the studio would be a relaxing atmosphere that would enable him to outreach to people that others cannot. Heffron reported that he is a member of the Christian Tattoo Association. Wojcik asked how Heffron attracted his clientele. Heffron reported that 80% of his business comes from referrals and repeat customers that are interested in his style of art work. Hall noted that there is some movement on the State level to license tattoo artists. Heffron reported that he supports this movement and felt that additional laws would provide more protection to both customers and tattoo artists. Hall asked if Heffron learned his craft as an apprentice to another tattoo artist. Heffron replied that he learned from others and is also self- taught. Heffron reported that there are tattoo schools being started now. He noted, however, that tattooing is more of an art form. Hall noted that tattooing has somewhat of a bad reputation, but felt this has been changing over the past few years. Hall asked what Heffron's policy would be if someone came into his business asking for gang symbols. Heffron replied that he has the choice in providing service to someone or not, but would not discriminate against people. Heffron reported that his policy is to do no tattooing of hate, satanic, or negative symbols or messages. Heffron reported that there is a lot of demand from people that have obscene or negative tattoos that are looking to get rid of them. He works with these people to modify the tattoo to cover up the negative symbol.