St. Joe approves new social district to boost businesses

ST. JOSEPH, Mich. — Businesses in downtown St. Joseph could be getting a bigger boost in revenue this summer. The city approved a new social district last night.

Leaders are hoping it will help the restaurant and retail industry recover, but not everyone is on board with the plan.

The summer months are crucial to cities and towns along Lake Michigan that rely heavily on tourism. Places like St. Joseph have taken a big hit over the last year.

"Since COVID started, it's been really rough," said Anne Reitz.

Anne Reitz, who owns Caffe Tosi, says downtown businesses like hers could use a boost. St. Joseph Today, a non-profit focused on tourism, came up with a solution.

"The purpose behind it is to truly drive business into downtowns and businesses that really need it," said St. Joseph Today Executive Director Amy Zapal.

St. Joseph Today petitioned the city to take advantage of new state regulations that allow the creation of a social district. It's a designated area where businesses can sell alcohol and customers can then walk around and drink in that area.

"They can just have a cocktail, window shop and then when they're done with the cocktail, go right into those stores. So it gives our retailers another chance to showcase all the wonderful things they have," said Zapal.

St. Joseph's social district will take up most of the downtown area where restaurants, bars and wineries are located.

Back at Caffe Tosi, Reitz says she's ready for the tourists to pour in.

"This summer is going to be off the hook. I mean, we're preparing now for double what we did last summer."

While most businesses are on board, not everyone is.

St. Joseph City Commissioner Jeff Richards was the only member to vote against it. He didn't return our requests for comment, but told our reporting partners at WSJM he had public safety concerns.

Opponents point to several large brawls at Silver Beach in previous summers and say adding alcohol into the mix raises concerns. But Amy Zapal pointed out that other cities using this same model haven't seen any major incidents.

"I can't guarantee that there won't be, but I certainly hate the idea that we are playing to the lowest common denominator. Most people are respectful, want to enjoy themselves, support local businesses and have a nice time," said Zapal.

Businesses that want to participate and serve alcohol will have to apply and be given a permit by the state. Drinks can't be more than 16 ounces and they have be consumed within the social district boundaries.

Niles Social District

St. Joseph isn't the only Michigan city that's taking this step. Niles is also on the verge of having a social district.

The City Council last night approved permits for Niles Brewing Company, Iron Shoe Distillery, and The Brass Eye to join the district.

The state needs to sign off on the district before a possible opening by the end of the month.