Proposed Warming Station at Mize Rose Garden

City Council Agenda Item Report FROM:

Ryan Cummins, City Manager

MEETING DATE:

September 14, 2026

SUBJECT:

Proposed Warming Station at Mize Rose Garden

DESCRIPTION: The Convention and Visitor’s Bureau (CVB) has been evaluating initiatives to improve shoulder season traffic. The CVB has approached the City Council with a recommendation to add a warming station to the Mize Rose Garden area. The minutes from previous Council meetings summarize the prior review and discussions: City Council Workship – 9-3-25 Lisa Mize, CVB Director, presented a shoulder season initiative idea, which aims to boost activity in Saugatuck during the fall, spring, and winter months. Consultants were brought in to assess the area and recommend ways to attract more visitors outside the busy summer season. One key recommendation was to install warming stations or fire pits in central locations. The Rose Garden was identified as a preferred location for a permanent warming station, with ideas to replace the current fencing with a low brick wall to make the space more inviting and provide additional seating. Other possible locations, such as Wicks Park and Village Park, were also discussed. The majority of funding would come from the Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB), with potential contributions from the city. Council members expressed the need to respect any restrictions tied to the Rose Garden. Next steps include preparing renderings for multiple locations and presenting the options to the council for input. City Council Regular Meeting – 11-10-25 Lisa Mize presented plans for a proposed warming station in the Rose Garden, emphasizing its carefully considered design to complement the existing landscape and improve accessibility for both residents and visitors throughout the year, including winter. She explained the station’s location and features, including low brickwork, multiple new entryways, and its elevated design to accommodate people with mobility needs. Lisa noted positive feedback from local businesses and stakeholders and

mentioned that outreach was ongoing. She assured the council that existing roses and sculptures would largely remain unaffected, and the city’s maintenance process would continue to involve contracted landscape professionals. Funding would come primarily from the Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB), with additional donations and possible in-kind contributions of materials, while final costs were yet to be determined. City Council Workshop Meeting – 6-17-26 Executive Director of the CVB Ashley Siebelink explained that the CVB-led project was updated after the survey: they worked with the same metal fabricator that did the Holland Ice Rink fire pits to design a custom structure. She clarified that the overall layout remains similar—replacing the existing fence along the sidewalk with a concrete sitting wall, keeping the rose garden and existing plantings largely intact, and adding some exterior landscaping. Siebelink confirmed the CVB board has now voted to fund the entire project capital cost, with no upfront city dollars, and that design input has come from community members (including local business owners/designers Martin Horner and John Cannarsa). Some councilmembers emphasized that the concept aligns with shoulder-season goals, the business community survey responses were largely positive, and the CVB’s willingness to fully fund construction makes it an attractive infrastructure amenity. It could create a welcoming gathering space in colder months without materially disrupting current priorities if the CVB manages the project and the city’s role is limited to plan review, snow removal, and routine maintenance. They also noted that other communities like Holland and Fennville have similar amenities and that this fits a broader trend of CVBs investing assessment dollars in public infrastructure rather than just marketing. Some councilmembers voiced concerns such that the Rose/Mize Garden was originally intended as a quiet memorial space tied to the Mize family’s donation. They questioned whether this project belongs in the city’s current priority list, worried about underestimating future DPW time to keep the feature operating and presentable. Other concerns were that survey participation (171 respondents) may not fully reflect broader community sentiment. Alternative locations—particularly Village Square/Village Park—were suggested as potentially better fits to both respect the memorial garden and The conversation ended with a procedural consensus: thanked the CVB and Ashley for the work and generous funding offer, and send the updated Rose Garden concept back to the PPW committee for a new recommendation—particularly on location, fence treatment, and maintenance— followed by Historic District Commission review, then a return to council at a future workshop and, ultimately, a regular meeting vote. Rose Garden Trust Language In November I provided City Council with a copy of the Rose Garden trust language. The City Clerk was also able to find a box of documents for the Rose Garden. The Clerk, previous CVB Executive Director, and I all took a look at the documents. The Clerk also reviewed minutes from around the time the Rose Garden was approved. In short:

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Nothing from the donor requires fencing or prohibits a warming feature from being incorporated. The donation through the trust and estate simply required that a rose garden remain in perpetuity to honor Roxie Mize’s brother and his wife. Other than that, the trust didn’t specify a location or particular requirements. The City went on to develop various options through a committee. Through the committee process and recommendations of the city manager at the time, a fence was included as a security feature. However, the Clerk didn’t find any specific motions or policies on fencing from City Council.

Survey Results At the request of City Council, the CVB completed a survey and provided the attached results. Parks and Public Works Committee Recommendation The Parks and Public Works Committee has reviewed the plans several times. They recommended approval at their July meeting: The committee discussed the proposal from the Visitors Bureau (presented by Ashley Siebelink), to install a gas-fired warming station and additional seating in the Rose Garden downtown as part of a larger shoulder-season initiative. The concept is to turn the Rose Garden into a more welcoming, multi-season gathering space, with a sculptural stone seating wall and a centrally located burner operated by a timer and emergency shut-off, designed in consultation with Chief Janik and a fireprotection contractor to meet safety and ADA requirements. The existing wroughtiron fence would be removed, making the garden more visually and physically accessible, while existing plantings would largely be preserved and enhanced in coordination with the current landscape contractor. Committee members supported the goal of more seating and extended use into the off-season but raised practical concerns about maintenance (trash, sticky spills, cigarette butts), gas costs, potential late-night behavior given nearby bars, and impacts on the Mize endowment and DPW workload. DPW Director Ondersma reported he had vetted the burner design, maintenance, and materials and was comfortable with the operational burden. Motion by Thiel, supported by Charak, to move forward with the Rose Garden. Via voice vote, motion carried 4-0. Historic District Commission Approval The Historic District Commission reviewed the plans at their September 3 meeting and approved: Motion by Patterson, second by Root to approve the applicant's request for a Historic District Permit for modifications to the Mize Rose Garden at the corner of Mason Street and Butler Street, including removal of the existing wrought iron fence and installation of

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low-masonry seating walls, additional landscaping, two (2) brick paver entryways, and custom natural gas fire feature, as proposed, based on the application meeting the applicable Historic District Guidelines set forth in §152.07. Motion carried 5-0, with Cannarsa abstaining. Public Works Review After conducting research regarding the proposed warming station, the Department of Public Works (DPW) has determined that the ongoing maintenance costs are expected to be minimal. Following discussions with Total Fabrication Solutions regarding the design and materials to be used, it was determined that maintenance costs should remain low due to the use of stainless steel in construction. Stainless steel is durable, corrosion-resistant, and well suited for outdoor applications. The log set supplied by Breck Iron Works will require seasonal rotation as part of its routine maintenance. The burner unit is also expected to require minimal maintenance. Additionally, discussions with a local fireplace company indicated that one of the most common maintenance issues with similar units is cigarette butts being placed inside them. This issue can be addressed through appropriate signage and regular inspection as part of the station's routine maintenance program. Estimated ongoing costs for gas consumption are being evaluated, and additional information will be provided at the workshop meeting. Overall, based on the materials selected, the proposed design, and input from local professionals, the warming station is expected to have relatively low ongoing maintenance. BUDGET ACTION: None at this time. The CVB is managing the project. The CVB has proposed covering all construction costs. LEGAL REVIEW: Legal will be at your meeting if you have any questions. SAMPLE MOTIONS: Motion to approve the proposed Mize Rose Garden warming station and associated site improvements in accordance with the plans approved by the Historic District Commission and to: 1. Authorize the Convention and Visitors Bureau to continue managing the project and to be solely responsible for all third-party costs associated with the design, permitting,

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construction, and completion of the project, with no City financial contribution toward such costs. 2. Authorize the City Manager to coordinate final City review and any necessary permits or approvals. 3. Authorize acceptance of the completed improvements as a donation to the City, subject to satisfactory completion and final inspection by City staff and/or the City Engineer. Motion to deny the proposed Mize Rose Garden warming station and associated site improvements as presented.

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Rose Garden Warming Station Proposal Presented to the City of Saugatuck Parks & Public Works Committee By the Saugatuck/Douglas Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

Summary The Saugatuck/Douglas Area Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB) respectfully requests the Historic District Commission’s approval to proceed with the installation of a permanent warming station at the entrance to the Mize Memorial Rose Garden. Designed as a welcoming public gathering place, the warming station will encourage year-round use of one of Saugatuck's most beloved parks while thoughtfully preserving the character and beauty of the Rose Garden. The funding for this project comes entirely from lodging assessments paid by overnight visitors, not local property taxes.

Project Vision The vision for the Rose Garden Warming Station is simple: Create a beautiful, permanent public gathering space that encourages people to enjoy downtown Saugatuck throughout all four seasons. Rather than serving solely as a fire feature, the warming station is intended to become a place where friends meet, families gather, visitors pause during winter walks, and residents enjoy the outdoors even on cooler days.

Respecting the Rose Garden The Mize Memorial Rose Garden is one of Saugatuck's most treasured public spaces, and preserving its character has remained one the project's highest priorities. Throughout the design process, the project team has worked to ensure the warming station complements rather than competes with the existing garden. Feedback from the public consistently emphasized the importance of respecting the Rose Garden's legacy. Survey respondents specifically encouraged preserving existing plantings where possible, and maintaining the garden's historic character.

Project Design The design of the warming station has been guided by a commitment to preserving and enhancing the Mize Memorial Rose Garden. Throughout the design process, Martin Horner, owner of Souci Horner Design Collective and a member of the Saugatuck/Douglas Area Convention & Visitors Bureau Board of Directors, has worked closely with John Cannarsa, owner of Cannarsa Structure & Design, to ensure the project complements the existing landscape while honoring the garden's original vision. A custom natural gas fire feature will serve as the focal point of a new gathering area, surrounded by brick pavers and landscaping that integrates seamlessly with the existing park. As part of the project, the existing wrought iron fence will be removed and replaced with low masonry seating walls. This enhancement opens the garden visually, provides additional seating, and invites residents and visitors to pause, relax, and enjoy the space. The design also improves accessibility by creating two new entrances into the Rose Garden, making the park easier to access from multiple directions and strengthening its connection to the surrounding sidewalks. Rather than functioning solely as a warming station, the space is envisioned as a year-round gathering place. During the cooler months, the fire feature will provide warmth and encourage outdoor activity. Throughout the rest of the year, the seating walls, landscaping, and open design will continue to serve as an attractive public amenity that enhances one of Saugatuck's most cherished parks. The proposed location and site layout are illustrated in the attached landscape plan.

Community Support In November 2025, the CVB conducted a Community Support Survey regarding a warming station in downtown Saugatuck. The survey received 171 responses representing residents, business owners, visitors, and other community stakeholders. Overall Support ● 74.7% Support ● 18.3% Oppose ● 7.1% Neutral/Unsure

Among business owners who expressed an opinion, support was overwhelmingly positive, with only four respondents indicating they believed the warming stations would negatively impact their business. Common themes from public comments included: ● Creating a more welcoming downtown during winter ● Encouraging year-round activity ● Increasing community gathering opportunities ● Respecting the historic character of the Rose Garden ● Providing additional seating and thoughtful landscaping A complete summary of the survey results is attached.

Project Funding The Saugatuck/Douglas Area Convention & Visitors Bureau has committed to funding the construction of the Rose Garden Warming Station. Estimated Project Costs Item

Cost

Masonry Construction

$35,910

Fire Feature

$12,565

Decorative Log Assembly

$20,000

Landscaping

$35,000

Estimated Total

$103,475

Proposed Timeline August 2026 ● Historic District Commission Review September 2026 ● Saugatuck City Council Review Fall 2026 ● Construction

Prior to the Community Tree Lighting (11/27) and Whootville Parade (12/5) ● Project Completion

Requested Action The Saugatuck/Douglas Area Convention & Visitors Bureau respectfully requests that the Historic District Commission’s approval of the Rose Garden Warming Station project so that it may proceed to the Historic District Commission for review. The CVB appreciates the Commission’s thoughtful consideration of this proposal and looks forward to continuing its partnership with the City of Saugatuck to invest visitor-generated revenue into projects that strengthen our community and improve public spaces for everyone.

MATERIAL ORDER DATE 8/24/2026 CUSTOMER Saugtatuck Visitors Bureau -

JOB NUMBER

PROJECT

Saugtatuck Rose Garden-Warming Station

EMPLOYEE

ITEM NUMBER

MATERIAL NAME

SIZE

LOCATION

TAGGED ORDER Y/N QTY.

Boxwood 'Winter Gem'

7 gal.

Geranium 'Max Frei'

1 gal.

Coral Bells 'Carmel'

1 gal.

Allium Millennium

1 gal.

SHIPPED QTY.

Warming Stations Community Support Survey Summary Overview The Warming Stations Community Support Survey was sent out in November 2025, and received 171 responses from residents, business owners, visitors, and other community stakeholders. Overall, the survey demonstrates strong support for installing winter warming stations (fire pits) in downtown Saugatuck and Douglas. Respondent Profile The majority of respondents identified as: ●​ Saugatuck residents: 105 responses (61%) ●​ Business owners in Saugatuck: 28 responses (16%) ●​ Visitors/non-residents: 10 responses (6%) ●​ Other respondents included Douglas residents, township residents, workers, taxpayers, and part-time residents. Overall Support for Warming Stations Response

Number

Percentage

Strongly Support

59.4%

Somewhat Support

15.3%

Neutral / Unsure

7.1%

Somewhat Oppose

7.1%

Strongly Oppose

11.2%

Key Finding Nearly 75% of respondents (74.7%) support the project, while 18.3% oppose it and 7.1% remain neutral or unsure.

Business Impact When asked whether warming stations would positively impact their business: Response

Number

Yes, positively

Neutral / Unsure

No, negatively

Not a business owner

Among business owners who expressed an opinion, support was overwhelmingly positive, with only four respondents indicating they believed the warming stations would negatively impact their business. Common Themes from Comments A total of 100 respondents provided written comments. Several clear themes emerged. Positive Feedback Many respondents described the project as: ●​ A "great idea" and a creative use of public space. ●​ A way to make downtown more welcoming during colder months. ●​ An amenity that could encourage people to spend more time downtown. ●​ A visual symbol of warmth, activity, and community during the winter season. ●​ An attractive feature similar to successful warming stations seen in neighboring communities. Representative comments included: "Such a great idea!" "A great idea to bring people downtown during our quiet season." "Whether/how much they are actually used, the visual is impactful—showing warmth, activity, and welcome even in cold weather."

Concerns and Suggestions While support was strong, respondents also raised several thoughtful concerns: Preservation of the Mize Rose Garden The most common concern involved protecting the character and legacy of the Rose Garden. Several respondents expressed support for the warming station concept while encouraging designers to: ●​ Preserve as many existing roses and plantings as possible. ●​ Maintain elements of the current garden layout. ●​ Respect the original donor intent behind the space. ●​ Avoid making the area feel overly hardscaped or "sterile." Design Considerations Some respondents suggested: ●​ Refining the fire pit design. ●​ Retaining portions of the existing fencing. ●​ Incorporating additional seating. ●​ Considering multiple warming stations throughout the community. Operations and Safety A few respondents requested additional information regarding: ●​ Fuel source and operation ●​ Hours of use ●​ Liability and safety considerations ●​ Ongoing maintenance responsibilities Conclusion The survey results indicate broad community support for the installation of warming stations in downtown Saugatuck and Douglas. Nearly three-quarters of respondents support the project, and business owners generally believe the warming stations will have a positive impact. The strongest feedback centered on ensuring that the final designs preserve the character of existing public spaces—particularly the Mize Rose Garden—while creating welcoming gathering places that encourage year-round community activity. Overall, respondents view warming stations as a positive enhancement that can help reinforce the area's reputation as a welcoming, four-season destination.