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Zoning board approves variance for tattoo parlor at 2932 Peach Street
Summary
The Erie Zoning Hearing Board approved a use-variance allowing a tattoo parlor at 2932 Peach Street (appeal 13325), finding testimony that the storefront had been difficult to lease and that the business would fit the block's commercial character.
The Erie Zoning Hearing Board on an announced date approved a use-variance for a proposed tattoo parlor at 2932 Peach Street, appeal number 13325, in a property zoned RLB (residential limited business).
The board approved the variance after hearing from the property owner and the prospective operator, who described the storefront as difficult to lease and said placing a tenant there would remove a vacancy on a commercially active block.
Jared Grubbs, the property owner, told the board he had invested time and money to renovate the building and had been unable to find a tenant within the limits of the RLB district. “Ink Therapy is the tenant that was prepared to rent this space,” Grubbs said, arguing the tenant would occupy the existing storefront and that the storefront’s prior use as a barbershop required no major modifications. Grubbs said the space is listed on MLS and that renting it as residential was not feasible because of the building’s layout.
David Michak, identified as the owner and operator of Ink Therapy, described the business as a tattoo studio that emphasizes a welcoming space for women while also serving male clients. “My whole concept for this tattoo parlor is basically a safe, welcoming, you know, comforting place for women to come in and get tattoos,” Michak said. Michak said the studio’s artists also work in other visual arts and that the business helped him personally after military service.
A resident, Cathy Shoff, spoke in support, saying the storefront is in a commercial stretch and had been well remodeled. No speakers opposed the variance during the hearing.
Board members who stated their votes on the record — Mr. Seibold, Miss King, Miss Gungeon, Mr. Dawson and Mr. Johnson — voted to approve the variance. The board did not record a formal written condition beyond approval during the public hearing. After the vote, board staff said they would provide next steps to the appellant.
Appeal 13325: the board approved a use-variance to permit a tattoo parlor at 2932 Peach Street in an RLB district; the transcript shows proponents emphasized vacancy, prior barbershop layout, and a community-oriented business model.
