Palatine council to consider tattoo parlor

Palatine residents eager for a butterfly tattooed on their ankle or barbed wire on their arm now have to leave town to get inked.

That soon could change if officials Tuesday approve a proposed tattoo parlor on the village’s north side.

Maximum Tattoo Studio and Gallery hopes to open at 1709 N. Rand Road, just north of Capri Drive, in a shopping plaza that currently houses a tax service, payday loan business and employment agency.

Phil and Beth Cisco have a combined 33 years of experience as tattoo artists and are trying to make the transition from independent contractors at a North Chicago operation to shop owners.

The Wheeling couple earlier this month appeared before the village’s Zoning Board of Appeals, which recommended their proposal by a 6 to 1 vote.

Just one resident spoke out against the plan, citing concerns with overflow parking in the adjacent neighborhood and minors observing the tattoo process from outside the establishment.

In asking for the village’s approval of a special use, the Ciscos discussed their otherwise normal life as responsible citizens and parents who don’t drink, use drugs or throw loud parties.

“At the office, we’ve tattooed your receptionist, the cleaning people, the bike messenger and the CEO of your company,” the couple wrote the village in an effort to portray tattoos as universal.

Aside from tattoos, the business also would host up to four art exhibit events each year. No body piercing will take place at the establishment.

The Ciscos said they’ve reached out to area businesses and that Gator’s, City Limits Harley Davidson and Culver’s have been especially supportive, with the idea they may share customers.

The shopping center would be short 11 parking spaces according to village code, but village staff believes it won’t be a problem considering Maximum Tattoo expects to do the bulk of its business in the evening when neighboring businesses are closed.

So as not to attract intoxicated customers, the Ciscos propose staying open until 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 10 p.m. all other nights.