Planning Commission recommends relocation for Sinister Productions

The Mount Pleasant Planning Commission approved a move by Sinister Productions tattoo studio to the empty location at 1807 S. Mission St. Thursday by a 7-1 vote.

Despite objection from Renee and Dave Rowley, co-owners of the Designer Consignor next door at 1809 S. Mission St., the commission passed Thursday a motion to approve the use of a group A special-use permit to relocate Sinister Productions from its current location at 2056 S. Isabella Road.

Sinister Productions owner Norman Dow’s request drew support from his former clients, ranging from permanent residents of the Mount Pleasant community to students at Central Michigan University.

According to the specifications of the approved package, Dow must obtain a copy of a state license proving that his facility meets and adheres to minimum public heath standards, including inspection by local health departments. The standards will be put into effect by the state starting Jan. 1, 2010.

The Planning Commission expressed concern that the addition of a tattoo parlor to the proposed location would encourage the development of a “skid row” area.

However, both property owner Steve Silverberg and Dow agreed loitering would not be permitted outside the studio and smoking would only be permitted outside the back of the building.

“There will be absolutely no ‘skid row’ effect because I run a clean and respectable business,” Dow said.

Dow also must adhere to the set hours of operation — from noon until 9 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.

Sears request

The Planning Commission approved the request of a site plan review by the Tancor Corporation to replace an outdoor enclosure at the loading dock of Sears, 1400 S. Mission St. The replacement will require the destruction of the vacant Taco Boy building.

The vote was unanimous for approval of the site plan, provided the Tancor Corporation follows the Oct. 20 plan presented to the Planning Commission.

The Planning Commission discussed the financial implications of the 2010 Census for the City of Mount Pleasant, and stressed the importance of students correctly filling out forms.