GLADSTONE, Mich. (WZMQ) – The City of Gladstone is asking citizens for input on a potential social district.
On Monday, May 12, the City Commission is holding a public hearing for residents who would like to learn more about the proposed social district. Attendees will have an opportunity to ask questions and share their thoughts.
The hearing will also include a presentation with full details on the proposal, which includes a designated portion of Delta Avenue where patrons could walk around with alcoholic beverages purchased from approved businesses.
The Gladstone Downtown Development Authority (DDA) recently conducted a digital survey, which garnered nearly 200 responses. 79% of people who took the survey were in favor of a social district, 14% were against it, and the rest were undecided.
DDA Director Patricia West says the City wants to gather as much feedback from the community as possible before making a decision.
“It’ll be interesting to hear what comes out of the public hearing,” said West. “I really want to encourage people to come and speak up, whether in favor or opposed, and really have their voice heard. We want to make sure that if this is something we’re pursuing that the community really wants it.”
The public hearing will take place during the regular City Commission meeting, which begins at 6 p.m. at City Hall. Citizens who cannot make it to Monday’s hearing can submit a letter to Mayor Joe Thompson at City Hall before 4 p.m. that day.
For previous WZMQ 19 coverage of Gladstone’s potential social district, click here. More information on the proposal from the DDA is available at gladstonemi.gov/dda.
