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NILES — A downtown business is now able to serve adult beverages to enjoy outside of its establishment within the approved areas of Niles’ social district. 

Iron Shoe Distillery was unanimously approved for a social district permit by the Niles City Council Monday night. An expansion of the city’s Commons Area was also approved to include Iron Shoe Distillery and Casperson’s Books and Art.

In July 2020, Michigan moved to allow local government units to establish within their boundaries a Social District and within the Social District, a Commons Area where patrons of properly permitted licensed alcohol providers may be outside with a single open container. In August, 2020, Niles adopted a Resolution Designating Social District No. 1 and defining a Commons Area.

Prior to Monday’s approvals, the Commons Area ended at the corner of N. 3rd and Cedar Streets. Iron Shoe Distillery applied for a Social District License and in order to participate, the Commons Area needed to be extended to include their business.

The Council approved extending the district south on N. 3rd Street, both sides of the street and across Broadway to include both Iron Shoe Distillery and Casperson’s Books and Art at 302 Broadway. Iron Shoe joins 2nd & Main, Niles Brewing Company and The Study as licensed establishments within the district.

Social district rules

• Drinks containing alcohol in properly-labeled cups purchased from the following businesses are permitted:

The Study, 204 N. 4th St.

Niles Brewing Company, 206 E. Main St.

Iron Shoe Distillery, 3 N. 3rd St.

2nd & Main, 127 E. Main St.

• Drinks containing alcohol from other businesses, or drinks not in a properly labeled cup are prohibited.
• Social District beverages are not allowed in non-licensed food establishments.
• Retail establishments will have signage indicating whether Social District drinks are allowed or not.