The South Haven City Council is considering the rezoning of the former Golden Brown Bakery property at 419 Phoenix Street to allow for the construction of a four-story mixed-use development.
The proposal submitted by Cottage Home calls for ground floor retail space, 12 hotel rooms on the second and third floors, and a fourth floor event space.
At this week’s city council meeting, the discussion focused on deviations from the zoning requirements, particularly the possibility of allowing members of the public to rent the rooftop event space that had previously been limited to hotel guests. Council member Tom Capps didn’t see a big issue.
“They hoped it was for the hotel, but it would only make sense that a venue of that be open to other things,” Capps said. “And if they can take care of the parking or we have a good resolution on it, that would be great.”
However, council member Mary Hosley felt the question should go back to the planning commission.
“I’m uncomfortable with a change to a condition from the planning commission that was in July being received today without sufficient time to really think it over and just learning of it now,” Hosley said.
Additionally, because the building would stand about 47 feet, the developer is seeking an exception to the downtown zoning limit of 45 feet.
After some questioning, the council voted to schedule a public hearing on the zoning change for September 8.
Supporters of the project say it would attract business retreats and visitors. Among them is Visit South Haven, which submitted a letter of support to the city.
