Discuss an Ordinance Licensing Massage Establishments and Massage Therapists

At the July 8, 2014 city council work session a proposed ordinance licensing massage establishments and therapists  was discussed.  Council had questions and concerns regarding language in the proposed ordinance.  The city attorney revised the proposed ordinance language based on council discussion.  The city attorney provided reasoning why some of the  language was included in the original proposed ordinance - see memo.  Staff  and the city attorney researched neighboring municipalities massage ordnances and are prepared to discuss findings

A representative from Anoka County Sheriffs Office Criminal Investigation Divisions will also be present to answer questions about criminal activity in Ramsey and Anoka County massage establishments.

Attached is a revised proposed ordinance for discussion and consideration.

Original Case:
The Ramsey Police Department has become aware of illegal activity taking place at massage establishments in Ramsey as well as other locations within Anoka County.  In order to control the criminal activity and protect the health, safety and welfare of the citizens of Ramsey, the Police Department believes it is necessary to adopt an ordinance that will license massage establishments and the employed therapists. 

The State of Minnesota has no licensing regulations concerning the practice of massage therapy.  The regulation of the massage industry is left up to the local authority, meaning county or city. The County of Anoka does not have any licensing provisions and leaves any regulations up to the City where an establishment is located.  By establishing an ordinance, the City would be able to revoke or suspend a license where illegal activity has taken place.  The City currently has no authority to close a business where illegal activity has taken place or remove a therapist that has violated State Statute.

15 - 30 min

None

Police Department and City Attorney