Jackson aldermen deny permit to massage business

Following opposition at a January public hearing, the Jackson Board of Aldermen on Monday denied a special-use permit for an in-home massage business on Priest Street. The vote was originally scheduled for the Jan. 18 meeting but was tabled after neighbors spoke against the request and aldermen said they needed more time to consider the issue.

Neighbors voiced concern in January that the business could lead to traffic problems and safety issues for children playing on sidewalks. No one spoke at Monday's meeting.

The ordinance that would have allowed Patricia Wischmann to operate the in-home business contained several conditions, including limiting her advertising at the building, hours of operation and the number of clients she could have on the property at a time.

Alderman Larry Cunningham proposed an amendment to the ordinance further curtailing her hours of operation, but the amendment died for a lack of second.

While four of the seven aldermen present approved the ordinance, five votes are needed to pass an ordinance, city attorney Tom Ludwig said.

Aldermen Mark Dambach, Tim Welker and Larry Cunningham voted against the ordinance. Alderman Dale Rauh did not attend the meeting.

There was also a public hearing at Monday's board meeting to consider the abandonment of a public alley right of way in the Horrell-Byrd & Company addition to the city of Jackson. Three West Main Street business owners near the alley spoke against abandonment.

Ron Cook, owner of Stooges, said when there is high water in the area, the alley is often the only way employees, customers and delivery trucks can access his restaurant.

Aldermen tabled the vote until Feb. 21, giving the board more time to research the issue.

Other action

Aldermen also approved:

* A motion to amend the 2010 city of Jackson annual budget regarding exceeding 2010 appropriations.

* An ordinance amending Chapter 29 of the code of ordinances, regarding the disposal of yard waste.

* An ordinance indicating the city of Jackson's intent to participate in the Show Me Green sales tax holiday.

* An ordinance accepting a South Old Orchard Road right-of-way deed of dedication from The Craftsman Independent Union Health, Welfare and Hospitalization Trust Fund regarding the South Old Orchard Road Improvement Project, Phase 5.

cbartholomew@semissourian.com

243-8600

Pertinent address:

101 Court St., Jackson, MO

915 Priest St., Jackson, MO