The South Haven City Council is considering establishing a Social District from October 1 2023 until May 15 2024. They heard from City Manager Kate Hosier and Assistant City Manager Griffin Graham last night on the idea, with Hosier noting she has spoken with St. Joseph City Manager John Hodgson on their experience, and he has told her it has been positive. She says it wouldn’t be taxing for police to patrol.
“I think this is a manageable ask of the police department. We’re in the off-season and we have more time, as you look out the front door at City Hall, it’s a calmer night. We’re not seeing as much foot traffic in downtown as we do during the summer.”
Social districts began during the COVID-19 pandemic to give restaurants an option for outdoor seating to keep people spread out. There are roughly 80 in Michigan, and Hosier says South Haven approached it very conservatively. It would be on Phoenix Street from Kalamazoo Avenue to City Hall and Center Street from Huron Street until it ends at the Black River.
