“Maybe a malt, cider or something warm.”
Assistant City Manager Matt VanDyken says expanding Holland’s social district to include the new ice park won’t allow people to drink alcoholic beverages while skating.
“This wouldn't allow anyone to be on the pond or ribbon of ice itself.”
But drinking would be allowed off the ice in the plaza around the rink.
“Hang out in the plaza, watch what's going on.”
The proposal to expand the city’s social district would allow people to buy an alcoholic beverage in a to-go cup at one of 19 participating establishments and bring the drink into the ice park.
“Grab a beer or two at New Holland and come on down to the ice park.”
Council member Lyn Raymond likes the idea.
“I think expanding the social district makes sense. It just adds to the atmosphere.”
But Councilmember Scott Corbin says alcohol was never part of the ice park plan.
“The intent was always to create a safe, accessible, family-friendly environment, never to in include alcohol sales as a core feature.”
At their last meeting council did not take immediate action to allow alcohol in time for opening day at the ice park. They will get community input before a final decision. Mayor Nathan Bocks:
“I think that this will enhance the experience for some. I don't think that it will take away from the experience.”
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