title
Ordinance Authorizing the Approval of a Pilot Social District in the Brooklyn Arts District
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Department: |
City Manager |
Meeting Date: |
January 7, 2025 |
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Contact Name: |
Chad McEwen |
Public Hearing: |
N/A |
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Contact Phone: |
910-341-7800 |
Advertising Date/Advertised By: |
N/A |
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Attachments: |
BAD Pilot Social District Ordinance Attachment 1: BAD Collective Pilot Social District Background and Recommendation |
PURPOSE:
Council is being requested to authorize a temporary pilot program for a social district along a 10-block section of 4th Street (from Walnut to North Front Streets) for three Saturdays in February, with hours of operation from 12 noon to 5 pm.
BACKGROUND:
On October 30, 2024, the City received a proposal from the Brooklyn Arts District (“BAD”) Collective related to a pilot program for a social district along a 10-block section of 4th Street (from Walnut to North Front Streets). According to the proposal, the Collective consists of more than 20 small businesses that represent a cross-section of retail and service-oriented establishments, including several restaurants, bars, and breweries.
Although the ultimate desire on behalf of the BAD Collective would be for a permanent social district, the initial request is for a pilot program, which consists of three Saturdays in February, with hours of operation from 12 noon to 5 pm. These Saturdays coincide with existing events that have occurred in years prior within the District, as well as new events, and the BAD Collective has agreed to take on the responsibility of meeting all state law requirements for social districts, resulting in no expense to the City.
budget
BUDGET IMPACT:
N/A
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RECOMMENDATION / ACTION REQUESTED:
Based upon discussions with the BAD Collective, WDI, and relevant City Staff, staff believes that the 4th Street/Brooklyn Arts area is a reasonable location for a pilot social district. In addition, staff feels that the conditions outlined above and attached herein regarding the operational plan developed by WDI and the BAD Collective will help ensure that public safety interest will be maintained. In addition, staff believes that the BAD Collective is cognizant of the City’s concerns related to ensuring that the rights and interests of the non-participating businesses and private residents within the proposed footprint will be preserved.