2016-05-03 P & Z Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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"I need it healthy in here," said Cheryl Carleton, owner of Reset Weight. "I don't need people ingesting smoke in a wellness facility. It's not good for business." Heather Payden-Williams, the owner of the Art of Massage that is upstairs, agreed. "I'm selling wellness, so I don't appreciate having to drift through a smoke cloud to get my work done," she said. She said the smoke is also affecting her. "My eyes were red, and I had a massive headache." The smell is stronger in some parts of the building than in others. Attorney Mario Gonzalez said he didn't notice it. But next door to his office, Mickey Mackaben is upset. The owner of Salon Transitions by Mickey considers the smoke disrespectful and inconsiderate. "I'm not saying hookahs are bad, but there is a responsibility when you have that type of a business," she said. Bazak said he will push the lounge owners to fix the problem and plans to come to Rapid City to see how the businesses are operating. It remains to be seen, however, if he will be able to act quickly enough to satisfy his other tenants. Grubl said if nothing changes, she also will try to contact the state health department. "I'm trying to figure out where to go, because it is a health hazard," she said. Contact Barbara Soderlin at 394-8417 or barbara.soderlin@rapidcityjournal.com.