Anoka Tattoo Shop Must Close Before It Opens

ANOKA, Minn. (AP) — Anoka city officials told a tattoo shop owner that he could open his business — only for him to find out right before opening that tattoo shops aren't allowed there.

Owner Jon von Glahn said that he contacted Anoka Associate Planner Crystal Paumen on December 31st, 2014, who confirmed that the tattoo business would be allowed.

Von Glahn said they signed the lease agreement and invested $10,000-$15,000 in the space for it to open March 1st.

On February 26th, they received a phone call from Planning Director Carolyn Braun, who said she couldn't approve their signage permit because tattoo businesses are prohibited on the street.

Anoka City Manager Tim Cruikshank said the city council will be asked to vote on a proposed settlement during a Monday meeting.