The Hastings Rotary and Kiwanis clubs Monday sought permission from the Hastings City Council to operate the Thornapple Plaza concession stand during its second season, and again asked to serve beer and wine during some of the entertainment programs. A similar request made last year was soundly rejected by the Hastings City Council.
This year, council members were more open to the idea and asked for a business plan and more information on the plans for them to consider before making a decision. David Solmes, speaking for the civic clubs, said the concession stand made very little profit last year and beer and wine sales would raise money needed to pay for the entertainment acts at the city’s newest attraction.
The Baum Family foundation funded the construction of the Plaza and then gifted it to the City of Hastings, and also agreed to pay for the entertainment for the first three years; last year, this year and next year. Solmes said they have a Barry Eaton District Health Department permit and liability insurance, and want to work with city staff on the details of the concept, “to see if we can make it work.”
“There could be a scenario where this would work,” Councilman Don Smith said, noting that alcohol is served outside during Summerfest and the Barry Roubaix. “But, we do need a plan on how it’s going to work. With a plan, the questions go out the window.” Other council members echoed Smith.
Councilman Bill Redman objected, saying: “I have a real big problem with this,” and made a motion to deny the request. The motion failed 8-1 with Redman the only vote against the request.
“Draw up a plan…and bring it back,” Mayor David Tossava said.
In other business, The Hastings Police Department Monday was given formal permission to host National Night Out at Tyden Park Aug.1. Deputy Chief Dale Boulter said the event is “a big picnic,” that gets police involved in the community and lets all emergency services personnel, police fire and ambulance meet and interact with the community. A national event on Aug.1 since 1984, the Hastings event will be from 5 p.m. to 8 pm.
Also, the council presented a certificate of appreciation to Eric Baird recognizing the extensive improvements he and his wife made to their new residence at the corner of Michigan Avenue and Center Street.
“Code enforcement is challenging, frustrating and sometimes, no fun at all,” Police Chief Jeff Pratt said. The Bairds made extensive improvements in the house in disrepair that they purchased less than a year ago, “spending a small fortune, I’m sure,” Pratt said, “to make Hastings look better. It is appreciated by the City of Hastings.”
The council also tabled an amendment to the zoning code that would allow construction of balconies on buildings in the downtown under certain conditions. Council members asked for more information on safety issues and if balconies will fit in with the historic look of downtown. They will bring it up again in two weeks. The planning commission has been working on revisions and refinements to the ordinance over several months and recommended its approval.
