Kelsey Klont
Contributing Writer
(Photo by Kelsey Klont/TCJ – Charlotte social district is now open!)
In 2020, the state of Michigan passed bill MCL 436.1551, which allows of the open carry and consumption of adult beverages in a designated space in towns and communities across the state, known to be called a social district. Which by definition is a designated area deemed suitable by the local government where consumers are able to enjoy spirits in designated commons area that is outside of a licensed establishment. Since then, 140 municipalities have adopted this legal acceptance for social interaction purposes, allowing for all adults to enjoy each other’s company with a refreshing adult beverage in a public space.
Social districts, while enjoyable by the masses, take a lot of dedicated work by the CharlotteRising’s Executive Director, city officials, and other reputable organizations behind the scenes in determining and establishing the ground rules, boundaries, and all the necessary details to properly ensure the public a positive experience with a social district.
Charlotte is now home to the first social district within Eaton County, provided from the collaborative efforts of CharlotteRising alongside City Council. CharlotteRising, a Michigan Mainstreet organization that is completely volunteer based, sees the importance of a social district in the aspect that is allows for socialization in a fun and relaxed setting.
This has been a longtime in the making, with the initial work beginning well over a year ago and now the wait is finally over. On Monday, November 25, CharlotteRising held the ribbon cutting of the social district, which allows for open carry of adult beverages only from participating bars and restaurants. Those being Acapulco Mexican Grill, Riedy’s Tavern, T Caps Tavern, and Charlotte Brewing Company.
Since the opening of the social district there has been some voiced questions and concern regarding the function of the social district. Below Annie Williams, CharlotteRising’s Executive Director, has kindly provided those answers and relief below to help provide more information.
What purpose does CharlotteRising see in bringing a social district to downtown Charlotte?
CharlotteRising is a volunteer-based, non-profit organization focused on expanding the economic capacity of Charlotte and its downtown area, and has a mission of cultivating a strong, creative, and diverse economy, while investing in Charlotte’s future. Social districts and municipal downtowns have demonstrated since 2020, that having a social district increases their economy, drawing additional and new patrons to businesses, concerts, festivals, etc. Often events in a social district provide fund raising opportunities to reinvest back into the downtown in forms such as beautification and safety features, that otherwise would come from tax revenues.
How was this idea approved and were potential issues vetted?
Over a period of nearly two years, the social district for Charlotte was discussed and evaluated by city council members representing the Charlotte citizenry. Numerous public meetings as well as council meetings were held, issues were discussed that were brought before the council through interaction by council members and the public they represent. The city’s attorney, familiar with social district law and other municipalities experience, also evaluated the city’s plan. Additional vetting occurred by council members reaching out to several of the 141 communities that have established a social district for insight and guidance to potential issues, and best practices to address these matters. In addition to the city council, Charlotte’s Police Department reviewed the social district plans and contacted law enforcement agencies with social districts for insight. The result is that having a social district has not shown to increase problems, accidents, or DUI’s.
At a higher level, Charlotte’s social district plan and boundaries were reviewed by the State of Michigan before giving the go ahead for Charlotte.
What procedures are in place to ensure orderly conduct and enjoyment within the social district?
Drinks can only be purchased at “approved” and “social district licensed” bars/restaurants. Outside alcohol is not allowed. Drinks must be in designated, clear cups – limited to 16 oz. serving size. Alcohol may only be purchased and consumed within the boundaries of the social district – identified by signage around the boundaries of the district. All laws pertaining to public intoxication, legal drinking age, drinking and driving, etc., apply to the social district. Purchased drinks cannot be taken from bar to bar nor outside of the social district. Downtown businesses within the social district may choose whether or not they participate, meaning they can prohibit social district drinks within their establishment. Signage in either the window or door of a business will indicate if the business allows drinks or not. The hours of the district are limited to Monday – Saturday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Sunday 12 p.m. to 10 p.m.
