SLC Council Gets an Eyeful at Blue Boutique Hearing

None by KCPW

(KCPW News) A public hearing about the adult novelty shop Blue Boutique peaked early last night when one outraged citizen waved graphic sex toys in the faces of city council members. The man was escorted from the hearing, but dozens more, including Annelle Doxey, stayed to rail against the Blue Boutique's new location near Highland High School.

"The window displays and products they offer will greatly increase the exposure our children will have to items of a sexual nature," says Doxey. "We urge the City Council to protect our children from harmful materials and sexual predators who may frequent the store and therefore be in the neighborhood."

Residents say the Blue Boutique should be classified as a sexually-oriented business rather than an accessory store. They also say it will hurt their property values. A number of customers and small business owners came to Blue Boutique's defense, including Sadie Salazar:

"Growing up I went to the Blue Boutique. My parents took me to the Blue Boutique," said Salazar. "Only fifteen percent of it is adult toys or novelties. That means 85 percent isn't - it's clothes, it's shoes, it's belt buckles. All kinds of stuff. I think a lot of the reason why people don't want it in their neighborhoods is because their neighbors are going to see them walking out."

The city has already given the Blue Boutique approval to open in its new location. The Mayor's office and police department are responsible for enforcing the city's sexually-oriented business laws. City attorney Ed Rutan says the Blue Boutique has a history of excellent compliance with those laws. The City Council did not take any action on the issue last night, but is considering a larger review of the sexually-oriented business ordinances.

Email to a friendPosted in KCPW Newsroom. Copyright 2008 KCPW