Help Leather Masters KC Save Their Business

On September 7, 2023 we (Leather Masters KC) received a communication from our landlord that he had been ordered by the City of Kansas City to shut our business down by September 20, 2023 due to a codes violation.

My Husband and I were in shock.

We have a current business license and have had one since we purchased the 42 year old business. Apparently, Leather clothing, gear and the novelties we sell are not welcome in Kansas City. We had to hire an attorney to appeal this decision which gave us the opportunity to file for non conforming use with the codes/zoning and development department.

In April of 2024 the city denied our request for a non conforming business. Previously we had been assured by the mayors office that if we simply filled out the paperwork for this non conforming use we would be fine. NOT THE CASE. We now have to appeal the decision by the city to not allow us to have a non conforming business use.

Again, this business has existed for 42 years. We have been issued a business license every year. We currently have an active business license issued by the City. The legal bills are mounting and have become overwhelming for us which is why we are asking for help. We would appreciate any form of assistance anyone can give.