Williamsport barber wants to offer therapeutic massage - The Herald-Mail

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WILLIAMSPORT — The operator of a Williamsport barber shop appeared before the Williamsport Town Council on Monday night to talk about her proposal to add therapeutic massage to her business.
Tammy Whitney of the Williamsport Barber Shop Downtown said there are various types of massage and the practice can be used to help improve blood circulation or to treat complications such as migraine headaches.
Whitney said she would have to obtain a license from the state to offer therapeutic massage at her shop at 28 N. Conococheague St., and she and city officials discussed what kind of city requirements she would have to meet.
Town attorney Ed Kuczynski said the town’s laws governing such businesses is detailed. But Kuczynski said he knows Whitney would offer a legitimate service, although he said there can be a stigma attached to massage services.
Kuczynski said Whitney would be able to pursue a permit from the town for the massage business if she is able to obtain her required licensing.
“It’s really just a matter of jumping through the hoops,â€￾ Kuczynski said. “I don’t think anyone is questioning the legitimacy of your business,â€￾ he said later in the meeting.
There was support from the council for the business and an interest in helping Whitney getting her business started quickly.
Kuczynski said Whitney would have to pay a permit fee of $1,000 and a $25 fee for each person offering massages. Those fees would have to be renewed annually, Kuczynski said.
Mayor James G. McCleaf II said he did not like the $1,000 fee but said he did not have a problem with the $25 fee.
Council members agreed to continue discussing the proposal next month.