The city of Hillsdale is planning a social district, in which the city could loosen rules to allow patrons of bars and pubs to consume alcohol outside.

City Manager David Mackie said officials will discuss specific details about the district, where it would be, and what it would accomplish. 

“We are still in the beginning stages, so the first order of business is to find out what it would look like,” Mackie said. “A major part of this would be to see how it has impacted communities that have already established social districts, such as Ludington and Tecumseh.” 

Officials must also set foundational services for the district to comply with state law, according to Mackie.

“Additional trash services and other things have to be in place for the state to review,” Mackie said. 

Hillsdale Mayor Adam Stockford said he is optimistic about this district’s potential positive effect on local businesses and the city’s economy. 

“It is a good sign that so many vibrant businesses downtown want to work together,” Stockford said. “Though the businesses which are taking initiative are competitors, they are interdependent.” 

City officials hope he competition between businesses turns into a mutually beneficial relationship. The community-based mission of businesses downtown can bring a sense of renewal to a small town, Mackie said.

Stockford said while it opens up many opportunities for more community, there will be specific requirements in the commons area in accordance with Michigan law. 

“This can help to enliven the downtown environment, because it allows the customers of pubs and bars to walk out of an establishment with an alcoholic beverage, provided that they use specific containers,” Stockford said. “This, in turn, will help local businesses that are competitors of each other to work together, and it fosters a more interdependent ambiance between distinctive restaurants and breweries.”

To carry alcohol in public, one must use a container with the logo of a business in the district, according to Stockford.

Junior and Rough Draft barista Nikoleta Klikovac said she supports the idea of a social district.

“I think this would be great for changing the social dynamic of Hillsdale and bringing us into the modern age,” Klikovac said.