DETROIT (WXYZ) - Dancers and strip club owners turned out in droves for a Detroit City Council meeting aimed at cracking down on the clubs.
It's been said when it gets dark in Detroit, the strip clubs light up, and there's concern that what goes on inside might be more than just a fantasy. But, people who work in these strip clubs say they pay good taxes and should be allowed to continue their business as they always have.
Only four council members showed up for Friday morning's meeting, so a vote was not taken on the issue.
At the Toy Chest, dancer Samantha Gapp says this is the only way she can make a living.
"Well, dancing for me is basically a last option at this point," said Gapp. "It's very, very hard to find a job."
Now, Detroit's city council wants to peek under the covers and see if some of the nightlife might be too racy. Club owners worry some of the new regulations coming up for a vote by council go way too far, and could strip them of their business.
If new ordinances are approved, they would prohibit the sale of alcohol inside the clubs, tipping, and topless dancing would be banned. Also, customers would have to remain at least six feet away from the dancers.
The association representing clubs like the Players Den, The Penthouse Club, Trummps and almost 30 others says it could be the death of the adult entertainment industry in the city, resulting in thousands of lost jobs.
