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Consents & Variances
54 West 39th Street, Narita Bodywork, Inc., application filed pursuant to Zoning Resolution Section 73-36 for a special permit to allow the operation of a physical culture establishment on the 4th floor.
At the regularly scheduled monthly meeting of Community Board Five on Thursday, January 17, 2013, the Board passed the following resolution by a vote of 35 in favor; 0 opposed; 1 abstaining.
WHEREAS, Narita Bodyworks is applying for a special permit for a physical culture establishment offering body work, facials and therapeutic massage; and
WHEREAS, The premises is located on the fourth floor of a commercial building; and
WHEREAS, The spa's hours of operation would be 24 hours a day, seven days a week; and
WHEREAS, Neighbors, including the local Fashion Center BID, have expressed concerns about the methods of operation of several other spas in the area; and
WHEREAS, CB5 members similarly expressed concern about the reputation of many of the neighboring spas in the area; and
WHEREAS, The Fashion BID, neighbors, and Community Board Five members all share concerns about putting another such establishment in an area with a reputation for disreputable spas; and
WHEREAS, Members of CB5 expressed concerns for the use of co- ed facilities during late night hours at this location; and
WHEREAS, The principal of Narita Spa was asked but declined to amend her hours in any way from a 24 hour operation, and
WHEREAS, Members of the CB5 expressed concern about the spa owner's business and marketing plans; and
WHEREAS, Community Board Five is gravely concerned with the methods of operation of many spas in this area and the overall impact of potentially adding another such spa to the neighborhood; therefore be it
RESOLVED, Community Board Five recommends denial of the application of Narita Bodyworks for a special permit to allow the operation of a physical culture establishment on the 4th floor of 54 West 39th Street.