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Downtown business asks commission to expand riverfront licensing boundary; staff to return in April with proposed rule changes
Summary
Owners of a downtown venue at 1108 Franklin Street asked the commission to extend the riverfront licensing boundary so they could hold on-site alcohol events; staff said the parcel is now inside a TIF and that rule changes to licensing would be drafted and returned to the commission next month.
Owners and operators of a downtown venue near the riverfront asked the Michigan City Redevelopment Commission on March 10 to consider expanding the riverfront licensing boundary so their business at 1108 Franklin Street could obtain municipal liquor privileges for events on the riverfront.
Public comment: Chris Funk and Stephanie Sullivan, who identified themselves as associated with the Nightingale (1108 Franklin Street, described as the downstairs of the Old Moose), said the venue has hosted events since October and would like the riverfront boundary extended so they can apply for licensing to serve alcohol on site. They said the location is just beyond the current riverfront limit and that expanding the boundary would support more live music (jazz and blues) and downtown activation.
Staff response and next steps: Staff said the parcel is now within a tax increment financing (TIF) district and would likely meet redevelopment qualifications if rules are adjusted. Staff said the statutory riverfront district boundary is set by statute but that the commission can adjust its rules to include qualifying parcels. The director said he would present a proposed rule change and expansion to the commission next month with the goal of considering action at the April meeting.
Licensing nuances: Staff discussed municipal liquor-license categories, noting a potential timing clause in some municipal two-way licenses that could disqualify applicants if the license was not available prior to an event; staff suggested applicants might seek a three-way license when available or work through other licensing paths. Commissioners and staff also mentioned a potential downtown dining district fund as part of a broader license revamp that could go to the city council.
Ending: Staff committed to bring a simplified, clearer set of rule changes and a proposed expansion to the commission for consideration at the April meeting so the venue at 1108 Franklin Street could be evaluated for riverfront-eligible licensing.
