The Centerville City Council has voted to deny a request from local fine line permanent make-up artist Nicole Hutchins to perform below-the-neck tattoos, citing zoning concerns and potential future implications for the area.
Hutchins, who is already legally performing permanent make-up tattoos on eyebrows, eyeliner, and lips in Centerville, sought to expand her business to include small, fine-line tattoos such as initials and dates. She approached the council with a request to modify zoning regulations to allow these tattoos to be done at her established salon, Nu Trends, located on Main Street.
“My goal is to offer simple, single-needle tattoos, not large, elaborate designs,” Hutchins explained. “I just want to provide this service in a salon I’m already set up in.”
Months ago, Hutchins applied for a zoning change to accommodate her new service. After several meetings and revisions to the proposed language, the matter was put to a vote at the city council meeting on Tuesday.
Council members, however, expressed concerns about the potential for this decision to open the door to more tattoo businesses in Centerville, particularly on Main Street, a small commercial district.
“We’re not voting on tattoos; we’re voting on a zoning issue,” said Councilmember Robyn Mecham during the meeting.
Councilmember Gina Hirst voiced further concern, explaining that approval of Hutchins’ request could lead to unwanted changes in the community’s landscape. “If you just give her fine lines, what’s going to come next?” she asked.
After extensive discussion, the council voted three to two in favor of denying Hutchins’ request.
Hutchins expressed her disappointment after the decision, emphasizing her desire to contribute to the local economy by offering services that residents are currently traveling to neighboring cities for. “Why should the city council say you can tattoo, but only on your face?” she said.
Currently, Centerville has no tattoo shops, though the city’s Community Development Director noted that the council is exploring options for designating an area within Centerville where a tattoo shop could operate in the future.
Related topics: