Massage ordinance change makes sense
Friday, June 27, 2003, Rosemount TownPages

Rosemount resident Lynette Stauffer deserves some credit. Years ago, communities across the country wrote ordinances which, in the end, made it difficult for anyone to open a massage parlor. Cities charged high annual licensing other potential business owners had to meet several other requirements getting city approval.

Cities were not trying to snuff out someone’s dream of owning a massage parlor. The fact was, a number of people had used the title “massage parlor” as a front for prostitution, and that had to stop.

Several years have passed since these ordinances were drawn up 30 years in some cases and the massage profession has changed considerably. . Massage therapy is no longer viewed as “alternative.” Many chiropractors employee massage therapists and physicians recommend them regularly. But many cities still have their old ordinances in place, which makes it difficult for massage therapists to make a living despite the fact so many people seek their services. That’s where Stauffer comes in. Stauffer recently earned her certification and wants to start a massage practice. She would love to open the business right here in her home town, but Rosemount’s city ordinance would have to change for that to happen.

Currently, there are no massage practices in Rosemount. In surrounding communities, such as Apple Valley and Burnsville, however, there are several. Some of the therapists working at those businesses are Rosemount residents who took a look at Rosemount’s ordinance and decided it would be easier to provide their services in another community.

For Stauffer, it is not just about opening her own business. She challenged the Rosemount City Council to revise the ordinance because she believes massage therapists deserve the same opportunities and level of respect that other businesses and professionals receive.

Cities still have to protect themselves against anyone who would attempt to open a business as a front for prostitution. But it’s hard to argue the fact it is time to make some kind of a change.