South Haven will have a social district in place next year after a 4-2 city council vote Monday night. Assistant City Manager Griffin Graham posed the question to the council about the area.
“My suggestion for all of you when considering this is this probably fits a lot more into the ‘want’ category than the ‘need’ category and it’s one of these that as the elected officials in town, we’re really looking for your guidance on is this something you guys want to try in town?”
He said it could be reversed with a vote if they decide the area is not meeting its expectations after holding a public hearing. The district will include Phoenix Street from just west of City Hall to Kalamazoo Street, Center Street from Huron Street to the shore of the Black River, Eagle Street from Kalamazoo to Center, and a small section of Williams Street. There are 17 businesses in the social district that have liquor licenses and will be allowed to sell to-go alcohol in special cups to customers if they get a permit.
