Opinion: Massage Parlors in South Lake Tahoe, Legitimate or Not?

Massage parlors are formally known for giving massages as well as allowing an opportunity for relaxation, however, local massage parlors have recently been accused of giving “happy endings” at the end of their sessions, which is considered prostitution. Without question, this activity is giving our beautiful town a bad reputation, creating the possibility of an economic downturn, and an increase in local crime.

A bad reputation seems to be growing due to illegal activity within massage parlors. If prostitution is allowed to continue in our beautiful town, known as a quality tourist attraction for outdoor enthusiasts, it may turn into a place known for prostitution. Law enforcement must crack down on prostitution before Lake Tahoe turns into the story of “what used to be.” The distraction caused by potential illegal activities in the massage industry creates the possibility for other issues, such as drug distribution and theft to be overlooked. The rise in these illegal activities generates a negative image for South Lake Tahoe, thus driving the economy in a negative direction.

If South Lake Tahoe does not put an end to prostitution it may cause a downhill spiral of the town's economy. Our local city council is currently taking steps to investigate the impact prostitution is having on our town. Adam Jensen, of the Tahoe Daily Tribune, points out that legitimate massage parlors may suffer from decrease in clientele, potential closure, and loss of income because their credibility is questioned. In summary, it is better to lose some of our workforce and income now, and accept the minor loss than to lose our entire workforce, income, and local legitimate businesses later.

The saying, “do the crime, pay the time,” is relevant to holding massage parlors accountable for illegal activity. If law enforcement does not take action, crime rates could potentially rise, as well as the number of criminals who will move to Tahoe in search of light punishment and loose laws. When illegal activity is overlooked, a town can be negatively impacted on many levels.

Our city needs to take action by creating stricter laws and expectations of massage parlors in order to stop this trend from growing and hurting our local economy and culture. Illegitimate businesses in any industry can obstruct the mission and value system of a community and its stakeholders.

Noah Jackson contributed this opinion piece as part of Mr. Filce's English class assignment at South Tahoe High.