Batavia gives preliminary OK to downtown massage business

A massage business could open in downtown Batavia, as long as its owner understands that if anything illicit takes place, she will lose the privilege.

Aldermen voted 11-1 at a committee-of-the-whole meeting Tuesday to grant a conditional-use permit for Sunshine Massage to open at 11 E. Wilson St. They will take a binding vote April 18.

"I want to address the 800-pound gorilla in the room," Alderman Marty Callahan said, pointing out massages businesses in St. Charles have come under fire recently, as employees have been charged with prostitution."What measures do we have in place to make sure that enforcement is in compliance with state law?"

Callahan asked who would check to see if masseuses have state licenses.

Joel Strassman, the city's planning and zoning officer, said the code enforcement officers do not routinely inspect massage businesses. Community development director Scott Buening said the police department investigates complaints.

The applicant is Yune Zhou of Springfield. She has a massage therapist license from the state and a business in Springfield.

One requirement for the business is the front windows cannot be obstructed by anything: Signs, blinds, curtains, decals, tints, furniture, magazine stands or coat racks.

Foot and hand massages will take place in a communal room. Body massages will be in private rooms. The business hours would be limited to 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Alderman Drew McFadden voted "no." He agreed with Alderman Susan Stark, who said it was another example of city officials allowing a downtown storefront to be occupied by a business that doesn't generate sales tax.

At least one beauty salon downtown offers massages, as does a chiropractor's office.