Bonnie Cranmer
Contributing writer
For decades, the Town of New Castle has faced challenges when new businesses want to establish or expand a presence. At the Oct. 21 meeting of the Town Council, Justin Seate provided a presentation about the 311 Tattoo business. After establishing themselves in the Craig Woods subdivision within the Craig County jurisdiction, the business has faced several challenges. Seate has worked with County Administrator Dan Collins to find solutions and a plan to move into the town limits has been proposed.
311 Tattoo is a LLC, licensed through the Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR). Seate has done extensive apprenticeships at Roanoke and Salem shops before receiving his license and establishing his business. His commitment to transparency and love of Craig County was demonstrated by his research throughout the community in the spring. Seate spoke to business owners and residents about tattoos and their feelings about a local shop. “People were interested, and even shared they had been against tattoos but a family member got one and it is beautiful,” Seate said.
Seate received a legal challenge from Craig County for the home business land use and confusion about deed restrictions which he is actively addressing. There is confusion about restrictions in the Craig Woods deeds and Craig County zoning codes for businesses. With Dan Collins’ recommendation, the Economic Development Authority has proposed a $3,000 grant to help with the relocation of 311 Tattoo to overcome these challenges.
The Friends of the Craig County Library have approved a tentative lease for the business to establish on the Rt 311 property beside the library. The existing building has completed an inspection from Brandon King, county building inspector. The plan is to move the existing building to the new site as soon as utilities are completed. Connections to water, sewer, and electricity are in development.
The success of the 311 Tattoo business includes 138 customers from 30 cities and 6 states since April 2024. Plans for a “311 Day” in March where all proceeds will go to the library are in the works. Seate and his wife, Tiffany have established roots in the community. “We knew we were supposed to be in New Castle,” Seate stated. The shop will have hours 11 a.m.-7 p.m., Monday-Saturday. Seate will be the only tattoo artist, by appointment. The shop will eventually include merchandise like hats, hoodies and Tshirts, stickers and other popular items.
Consistency in zoning codes, restrictions and conditional use or exceptions have plagued local authorities for decades. Businesses attempting to establish a retail or service business do not have a clear path to what is allowable or where. With the help of Craig County’s administrator, Dan Collins and New Castle Mayor, Lenny Macdonald, a path forward should be on the horizon. Seate is providing communications clarifying DPOR requirements, and working with the PSA to ensure utilities are being made available. The 311 Tattoo business anticipates finding a new home in New Castle soon. The town is requiring some licensing clarifications before a vote will be held. The next Town Council meeting is Monday, Nov. 18 at 7 p.m.
