DETROIT, MI — Last week, the Detroit City Council decided that four local strip clubs could sell their club permits to new owners, signaling a positive change in the city’s view on adult entertainment. The city had previously denied the transfer of permits, resulting in several lawsuits from unhappy club owners.Chocolate City, Hot Tamales, The Duchess Lounge and Crazy Horse can all now sell their permits to new owners.
“We had no alternative but to follow the law,” said Councilwoman Sheila Cockrel to the Detroit News, who voted for the transfers.
Local religious extremists aren’t happy with the decision.
“That’s really upsetting,” said Richard Mack Jr., an attorney and member of Perfecting Church. “We were told that the church community would get notice the next time this came up… Economically, it hurts the city. Morally and spiritually, it hurts the city.”
Brad Shafer, lawyer for the Zoo Bar, which is suing the city in part because its transfer was denied in November, said the City Council is realizing its error.
“They realize they are on shaky legal ground,” said Shafer.
Shafer’s case is pending in U.S. District Court and, he says, it could cost the city’s taxpayers millions of dollars. The new owners plan a Hustler strip club at the downtown location and everyone knows how Uncle Larry Flynt likes a good fight. By holding up the transfers, the city was effectively holding up people from selling their own property.
Looks like Larry’s going to win another one for free speech.
