Tattoo Parlor Plans Delayed by Parking

Plans to open a new tattoo and piercing parlor and art gallery on South Water Street have been delayed due to parking arrangements.

Ravenna resident Jason Miller asked the Kent Planning Commission for a conditional use certificate this week in order to open Art and Heart Gallery at 707 S. Water St.

Miller said he caters to high-end clients by appointment only.

"There are ample parking spaces to meet the requirements, however … the position of the parking spaces does not sit well with backing out into the road," Miller said.

The site plan for the business, at an existing building, shows eight parking spaces where six are required by city code.

Kent planning engineer Jennifer Barone said the spaces on the building's South Water Street side need to be adjusted.

"The way it’s laid out on the site plan does not work because they’ll actually be driving over the curb onto (S.R.) 43, which is not allowed," Barone said.

Miller said the business would also include occasional art shows, which might require patrons to use nearby on-street parking on Hall Street.

After talking to the planning commission Tuesday Miller opted to table the issue until the parking plan can be modified.

"We can’t make a decision, I can’t, on what you’ve shown us," commission member Peter Paino said. "We don’t want to discourage you. We need something that’s a little more detailed."