Green Bay’s Tulip Spa is facing potential license revocation as the city intensifies its scrutiny of massage businesses. During a recent Common Council meeting, a decision regarding the spa’s operating license was deferred, granting the business additional time to seek legal counsel. This postponement underscores the city’s heightened focus on ensuring massage establishments comply with local regulations.

City officials initiated a review of Tulip Spa’s license following the implementation of a new ordinance in February. This ordinance mandates that all massage businesses in Green Bay obtain a city license, requiring disclosure of any criminal history or regulatory violations. The city’s concern stems from discrepancies regarding the actual ownership and operation of Tulip Spa, located on West Mason Street.

According to a city complaint, while Wei Wen Zhu is listed as the license holder for Tulip Spa, authorities believe Xi Filion is the true owner and operator. City records indicate that Filion has accumulated ten citations for operating a massage or bodywork business without the necessary license. Filion addressed the Common Council at Tuesday’s meeting, requesting more time to understand and respond to the city’s concerns.

Prior to the council meeting, a reporter visited Tulip Spa and spoke with Wei Wen Zhu, the woman named on the business license. Through the assistance of Google Translate, Zhu asserted that she operates the business legitimately. When questioned about the city’s allegations, Zhu denied any illegal activities at Tulip Spa.

Zhu explained that while she manages the daily operations of Tulip Spa, Xi Filion assists with business administration, including bill payments and taxes, due to Zhu’s limited English proficiency. Zhu clarified that Filion is not an employee but rather provides administrative support in exchange for payment, stating, “She no worker, I just pay she money.”

Despite maintaining that Tulip Spa is her primary source of income, Wei Wen Zhu indicated she would close the business if the city revokes her license. This situation unfolds amidst a broader city initiative to crack down on illegal activities within massage establishments. Last month, Green Bay denied licenses to two other massage businesses as part of this ongoing effort. While city records currently do not link Tulip Spa or its owners to any criminal activity, the Common Council is scheduled to revisit the decision regarding Tulip Spa’s license at their upcoming meeting on December 17th.