A pair of local strip clubs have hired legal representation to battle an ordinance that would require them to obtain city-issued licenses and do away with private dance rooms altogether.
Attorney Daniel R. Aaronson told the Burlington County Times that the ordinance is “an attempt by the city to put the strip clubs out of business.” He said the ordinance violates the First Amendment and will not stand up in court.
At a City Council meeting on Wednesday, Aaronson said the strip clubs will sue the city if the ordinance is approved.
“This is not a threat,” he said. “It is a fact. It is a promise ... We will fight back.”
The council postponed the vote on the ordinance from last night until next month.
The ordinance was proposed by local police who told the council that they’ve responded to a high number of calls from the establishments.
Lawyers for the two strip clubs, Club Risque and the Playhouse, deny that strip clubs increase crime, and said they are prepared to fight the ordinance.
Aaronson told Lauri Sheibley of the Burlington County Times that the city will spend at least $250,000 in legal fees to fight a lawsuit. He urged the council to table the ordinance and talk with the strip club owners to reach a compromise.
