The Grosse Pointe Woods City Council convened on July 10 to discuss a proposal that could potentially transform the city’s social scene on the main road, Mack Avenue. The proposal, put forward by city planner Brigitte Smith, suggested the establishment of two designated social districts within GPW.
The council had a lively discussion with residents, officials and Mayor Arthur W. Bryant.
Brigitte Smith, the city planner responsible for the idea, began her presentation by outlining the concept of social districts and highlighting their benefits for the community and businesses around.
“Social districts are designated areas within a city where people can gather, socialize, grab a drink, and enjoy their outdoor activities in a controlled environment,” said Smith. “They serve as vibrant spaces that foster community engagement and will especially promote the local businesses.”
Neighboring communities like St. Clair Shores and Grosse Pointe Park are prime examples of successful social districts that have governed a wonderful sense of community. During the public comment section, GPW resident Susan Davisbern said she has been to “Park after Dark,” the unofficial name for Grosse Pointe Park’s social district.
“I think it would add a new dimension to the city,” Davisbern said. “One that we haven’t seen in the Woods before. Dedicated days and hours seem to be the thing during the longer summer nights. If you’ve ever been to Park after Dark, it’s like a huge turnout. Bands even have the opportunity to play a set…Would that be allowed in the Woods too? Bands?”
“Yes, as long as they don’t block or restrict any current businesses from obtaining business,” Smith replied.
There was a discussion about which businesses along Mack Avenue would be eligible to sell alcohol.
“It all depends on if said business has a Class C liquor license,” said Smith.
According to michigan.gov, a Class C liquor license allows a restaurant or bar to sell and serve beer, wine, mixed spirit drink, and spirits to customers. Smith said that all restaurants and businesses in the quarters of the two designated spaces, each about three blocks long, would engage in the social district and are in favor of the proposal.
City Attorney Debra Walling was concerned for the businesses who do have the classified license to sell and distribute liquor, but aren’t in the designated areas.
“What about the new…Someday Brewing…brewery on Mack and Anita?” Walling asked.
“Restaurants will remain open…being able to sell their food,” Smith said “If they have that Class C license, great. They can sell drinks as well.”
Smith said it’s important for the district to be condensed in that it doesn’t go beyond the limits of what is permitted.
“There is an opportunity for businesses outside of the lines to sell and distribute their liquor as long as they have clearly anticipated the steps in order to do so,” Smith said “It would be more so of a stand, promoting their alcoholic beverage…as in the brewery for example…and they can set up shop within the lines of the district if they, of course, have the licensing to do so.”
However, not all members of the council were completely on board with the idea, especially with Ghesquiere Park as part of the planned social district.
“What happens when an intoxicated someone stumbles into Ghesquiere while Little League games are going on? Heckling, being obnoxious, even…” assistant city administrator Susan Como asked. “I don’t think the Little League organization will be happy with us whatsoever.”
Council member Todd McConaghy said police will be stationed throughout the district to maintain a safe and sound turnout, hopefully mitigating any potential hazards and doing their best to ensure people don’t get behind the wheel after heavily drinking.
Following the discussion, the Grosse Pointe Woods City Council agreed to form a task force, have a joint meeting with the planning committee and city officials to further investigate the proposal and address the concerns raised. Smith will be among this discussion and will diligently continue to work on and develop a comprehensive plan that takes into account the safety issues and concerns.