Planning Commission waives zoning codes for massage studio

By Paul Takahashi (contact)

Wednesday, Sept. 1, 2010 | 2:05 a.m.

A family-practice massage studio is one step closer to becoming a reality. Last week, the Las Vegas Planning Commission unanimously approved the owner’s request to waive zoning codes and open Ilan Massage Studio.

The case was given a preliminary go-ahead despite Planning and Development Department recommendations against the facility based on its location near a school, residences and another massage establishment.

“The staff recommends approval or denial solely based on meeting criteria in the rules,” said Keen Ellsworth, vice chairman of the commission. “But when you look at the property, it may violate the letter of the law but not the spirit of the law. That’s how I viewed this property.”

Owner Leslee Wilburn told the commission, “I am a legit massage therapist. The school is in no danger because we are for children.”

Wilburn, a Navy veteran who comes from a family of entrepreneurs, named the massage studio for her 11-year-old daughter Kaela’s middle name. Ilan means “family tree” in Hebrew, which is fitting because the studio caters to families, she said.

“Whenever I pampered myself [with a massage], my daughter wanted to go, too,” said Wilburn, who is a nationally certified and licensed massage therapist. “Family is always first. [Massage] is a good place to bond as families.”

If approved by the city council, the 750-square-foot studio would be located at 9061 W. Sahara Ave., suite 104. It would include an office, treatment room, waiting area and a small reception area. Mothers could leave their children to be babysat in the same office, Wilburn said.

Although Ilan would cater to clients of all ages, it would focus special attention on infant and child massage, Wilburn said.

“Currently, there’s nothing here for kids,” she said. “The importance of massage for infants and kids is largely overlooked...Kids have stress just like adults do. Plus they carry backpacks and play sports.”

Wilburn is planning a grand opening party between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Oct. 31. Free chair massages will be offered as well as free food, drinks and giveaways.

For more information, visit the studio's website or call 702-586-ILAN.

Wilburn’s request for the zoning waivers goes for final approval in front of the city council on Oct. 6.