Kenosha committee approves narrower spacing rule for tattoo-shop conditional-use permits

The Kenosha Committee on Public Safety and Welfare on April 28 approved an amendment to the city zoning ordinance that changes location requirements for conditional-use permits for tattoo establishments, a measure sponsored by Alderman Kenny Harper.

The amendment, introduced by Harper, would alter the ordinance language governing distance requirements between tattoo establishments and other uses. Harper said the change is intended to “give businesses a better opportunity to operate in the city.” He identified himself as Alderman Kenny Harper, Portia District. The committee voted to approve the amendment by voice vote; the chair recorded an affirmative vote.

Committee members discussed the scope of the change during the meeting. One member asked whether the amendment had been prompted by a particular situation; Harper said it was prompted by multiple situations and a general review of the ordinance. Another member said they would vote in favor but expressed reservations about reducing the separation distance, noting the committee was moving the minimum from 1,000 feet to 750 feet. That member also said a 500-foot standard had been discussed historically but did not propose an amendment at the meeting. Another speaker noted that the city had not, in recent years, seen public-safety issues tied to tattoo establishments and described the businesses as an economic opportunity.

No staff presentation or technical report was offered at the committee meeting. Committee members did not adopt additional amendments during debate. The item will proceed to the full Common Council for consideration according to the committee process.

The approval changes the way the city reviews locations for tattoo businesses seeking conditional-use permits; exact ordinance language and the final council vote were not included in the committee record.