Tattoo Shop a No-Go in Downtown Panama City

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Tattoo Shop a No-Go in Downtown Panama City
November 9, 2011
Meagan O'Halloran
wjhg.com

While Panama City commissioners continue to map-out their plans to attract new business to the area, at least one industry won't be included.

Tuesday night Panama City commissioners shot down a proposal to change the distance requirements of an existing ordinance to allow body altering businesses like tattoo and piercing parlors to open in the downtown area.

When it comes to a new tattoo parlor in the downtown area, Panama City commissioners say they got the point.

"It's clear that the majority of this community, the vast majority, at least from the comments I've gotten, don't want to see this change right now, so I can't vote for it" said Commissioner John Kady.

Commissioners voted against amending a buffer ordinance Tuesday night, that would have reduced the distance requirements between tattoo parlors and schools, churches, and parks.

"I just think maybe (sometimes), we outta just leave well enough alone for the time being" said Commissioner Billy Rader.

Some commissioners were weary of the change because they believed it would not be compatible with the city's multi-million dollar downtown marina revitalization proposal.

"This ordinance will affect Panama City, that's everywhere" said Commissioner Kenneth Brown.

"I just don't think tattoos are going to be the savior of downtown" added Commissioner Rader.

One business owner did think it was a good idea.

Bob Hurst, who's vacant Harrison Avenue store front was to possibly become the tattoo parlor's home, objected to the commission's decision.

"I don't see where there's a problem, with a retail tattoo parlor downtown, maybe even two or three of them. They seem to work in other cities, why would they not work here?", Hurst said.

Mayor Greg Brudnicki abstained from voting on the issue due to a possible conflict of interest.