Planning Commission approves tattoo parlor in Central Business District

COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) – The opening of a tattoo parlor in the C-2 Central Business Zoning district is another step closer to reality.

The Coldwater Planning Commission recommended to the City Council on Monday night that a city ordinance be changed which would allow such a business in the district by Special Land Use. The amendment would also define specific areas within the district where tattoo parlors could be located.

Jason Salinaz told the Planning Commission in February he wanted to run a tattoo business at 87 West Pearl Street across the street from the U.S. Post Office.

The City Council will decide whether or not to introduce the zoning ordinance change. If they introduce it, there would be a public hearing two weeks later followed by possible formal action by the Council.

Meanwhile, the Planning Commission decided to table action on updating several city zoning ordinances as the city is pursuing certified status with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s Redevelopment Ready Communities program.

During the certification process, it was discovered that the ordinances did not fully align with the RRC’s best practices in the areas of Concentrated Developments, Housing Diversity and Parking Flexibility.

After City Planner Robert Hawley read a letter from the Downtown Development Authority on the proposed changes, Planning Commission member Michael Beckwith felt more time was needed.

Consultants from McKenna and Associates have recommended that the city enhance provisions regarding outdoor dining while also incorporating first-floor residential within the commercial area of the downtown.

They also felt the city should update zoning definitions to clarify permitted housing types within residential zoning districts, specifically the A-2 and A-3 zones.

In addition, McKenna feels the city should analyze its existing off-street parking ordinance and make recommendations and modifications to increase parking flexibility.