Survey Results and Updated Plan for Proposed Warming Station

City Council Agenda Item Report FROM:

Ryan Cummins, City Manager

MEETING DATE:

June 17, 2026

SUBJECT:

Survey Results and Updated Plan for Proposed Warming Station

DESCRIPTION: The Convention and Visitor’s Bureau (CVB) has been evaluating initiatives to improve shoulder season traffic. The CVB has previously approached the City Council with a recommendation to add a warming station to the Rose Garden area. The minutes from previous meetings summarize the prior 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. Parks and Public Works Committee – 11-25-25 Lisa Mize, Executive Director of the Saugatuck Douglas Convention and Visitors Bureau, presented the proposed Rose Garden Warming Station project. The initiative aims to increase downtown Saugatuck visitor activity during the shoulder seasons by creating a central, accessible gathering spot. The proposed warming station would be located at the Rose Garden, replacing the current fence with a brick wall or seating bench to make the park more welcoming. The design features a custom fire pit with raised height and safety measures under discussion. The project will be primarily funded by the CVB, with additional support from municipalities and donors. The presentation addressed site selection, design considerations, safety accessibility, and plans for seasonal use. Parks and Public Works Committee – 12-23-25 The group discussed a proposed warming station project, noting that the CVB prefers a “closed rose” design and is seeking bids. Several members suggested prioritizing local Michigan artists or ironworkers for the sculpture rather than out-of-state options and offered to provide local contacts. Concerns were raised about the warming station’s environmental impact due to fossil fuel use, as well as its actual effectiveness for warmth (especially without a windbreak), with some members seeing it more as an artistic or social feature than a true warming center. The importance of having a clear maintenance plan and defining who will oversee the project was emphasized, as many city projects compete for limited staff resources. Ultimately, most supported the project as a community enhancement, provided ongoing maintenance and responsibilities are clearly addressed and local talent is considered. 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: •

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.

 Page 2

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 and Updated Plan At the request of City Council, the CVB completed a survey and provided the attached results. They have also updated the plan, which is also attached. CVB Executive Director, Ashley Siebelink, will be at the workshop meeting to answer remaining questions and seek further feedback from Council. If Council is interested in seeing this proposed project move forward, staff has advised the CVB of the following steps: • •

Council Workshop – Council reviews survey results, answers to previous questions, updated plan, and any financial request. Parks and Public Works Committee – If at least a majority of Council Members remain interested in pursuing further, review updated plans with PPW for a recommendation to Council. Historic District Commission – HDC reviews and approves/denies based on historic district guidelines. Council Workshop – Council reviews whether HDC approved, PPW recommendation, and agreements (if necessary). City Council Regular Meeting – Council makes a decision on whether to approve the warming station and any financial assistance.

BUDGET ACTION: None at this time. LEGAL REVIEW: N/A at this time. SAMPLE MOTION: N/A. Workshop item at this time.

 Page 3

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.

Timestamp

Who are you? (select one)

Overall, do you support installing winter warming stations (fire pits) in downtown Saugatuck and Douglas?

11/21/2025 16:19:02

work here

Strongly support

11/21/2025 16:19:33

Business owner in Saugatuck

Strongly support

Yes, positively

11/21/2025 16:32:21

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

I'm not a business owner

11/21/2025 16:33:45

Saugatuck resident

Strongly oppose

11/21/2025 16:33:57

Saugatuck resident

Somewhat oppose

11/21/2025 16:34:05

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

11/21/2025 16:34:42

Saugatuck resident

Somewhat support

I'm not a business owner

11/21/2025 16:35:12

Visitor / non-resident

Strongly support

I'm not a business owner

11/21/2025 16:35:26

Saugatuck resident

Somewhat support

I'm not a business owner

11/21/2025 16:35:37

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

Yes, positively

11/21/2025 16:35:51

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

I'm not a business owner

11/21/2025 16:36:08

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

Yes, positively

This is great and a much better use of that space!

11/21/2025 16:36:42

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

I'm not a business owner

What a great use for that aspace in the cooler months.

11/21/2025 16:38:21

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

I'm not a business owner

Such a great idea!

11/21/2025 16:38:32

Saugatuck resident

Somewhat oppose

11/21/2025 16:39:30

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

11/21/2025 16:42:26

Saugatuck homeowner and tax Somewhat support

I'm not a business owner

11/21/2025 16:44:02

Saugatuck Twp part time reside Strongly support

I'm not a business owner

11/21/2025 16:44:20

Saugatuck resident

Neutral / Unsure

I'm not a business owner

11/21/2025 16:46:09

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

I'm not a business owner

11/21/2025 16:46:48

Saugatuck resident

Somewhat support

I'm not a business owner

11/21/2025 16:46:58

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

I'm not a business owner

11/21/2025 16:55:24

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

Yes, positively

11/21/2025 16:57:23

Saugatuck resident

Strongly oppose

I'm not a business owner

If you are a business owner, do you believe warming stations would positively impact your business?

Do you have any additional comments, compliments, or concerns regarding the warming stations?

this is a great idea and use of this space. It will be more inviting and I believe will get more use.

This "improvement" is not needed. There are no outdoor winter activities in the city requiring "warming." And the Rose Garden shouldn't be redeveloped in this way.

Think it is a great idea for the Rose Garden. My support of others depends on location, but yes, we do enjoy them in Holland.

A great idea to bring people downtown during our quiet season

11/21/2025 16:35:45

I'm not a business owner

I think it would bring more visitors to Saugatuck in colder months

If many restaurants are closed in winter what good is a warming station?

Timestamp

Who are you? (select one)

Overall, do you support installing winter warming stations (fire pits) in downtown Saugatuck and Douglas?

11/21/2025 17:01:24

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

If you are a business owner, do you believe warming stations would positively impact your business?

Do you have any additional comments, compliments, or concerns regarding the warming stations?

I'm not a business owner

Don't love the design of the firepit in the rendering, but I like the idea. I do think doing away with the fence around the garden (and installing the low walls that could be used for seating) would make it more user friendly. Hopefully they can save a lot of the plants that are already there. No need to tear everything out. This is a passive featureCVB should work on doing active events/ features to draw customers to the area in Q4 and Q1. Enlist the SCA to use their stages. Enlist businesses in shopping / dining features (restaurant week / shopping promotions). The flowers by the Butler is a passive thing and a failure-most of the flowers are no longer lit.

11/21/2025 17:08:25

Business owner in Saugatuck

Strongly oppose

No, negatively

11/21/2025 17:10:05

Visitor / non-resident

Somewhat support

I'm not a business owner

11/21/2025 17:10:59

Saugatuck resident

Somewhat support

Neutral / Unsure

This is not a reason to visit or stay longer in winter months. I do not see this having an impact on shoulder season visitors. Take a page from Holland and all the well-organized events they do.

11/21/2025 17:11:30

Douglas resident

Strongly support

I'm not a business owner

I think they are a great addition to a downtown area.

11/21/2025 17:12:01

Business owner in Saugatuck

Strongly oppose

No, negatively

11/21/2025 17:15:49

Douglas resident.

Strongly support

I'm not a business owner

11/21/2025 17:17:09

Saugatuck resident

Somewhat support

I'm not a business owner

11/21/2025 17:19:05

Saugatuck resident

Somewhat support

11/21/2025 17:23:15

Douglas resident/business own Strongly support

Yes, positively

Whether/how much they are actually used, the visual is impactful - showing warmth/activity/welcome even in cold weather.

11/21/2025 17:23:22

Douglas resident (year round)

I'm not a business owner

Nice use of that corner The conceptual plan shows the warming station with some shrubs as a back drop. The Mize's gave a large, generous amount of money for a rose garden in memory of his sister. I love the idea of a warming area, but please make sure the original use for this space does not get forgotten. Also I don't feel it necessary to remove all the fencing. To selectively leave part of it creates a feeling of enclosure, but does not confine. Thank you. Ruth A. Johnson, Landscape Designer

Strongly support

I’m concerned about losing the beauty of the Mize Rose Garden—the drawings make it look pretty antiseptic. If you can keep the majority of the garden as it is, I’m all for a fire pit.

11/21/2025 17:23:42

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

Neutral / Unsure

11/21/2025 17:26:38

Saugatuck resident

Somewhat support

I'm not a business owner

11/21/2025 17:27:07

Saugatuck Twp resident

Strongly support

11/21/2025 17:28:19

Saugatuck resident

Somewhat oppose

11/21/2025 17:34:07

Saugatuck resident

Somewhat oppose

Need more than one in Each town. Douglas location would be great at beery field corner and at the post office.

Issue of liability to the City for fire-related injuries (especially if after dark), no mention as to type of fire fuel (assume natural gas), hours of operation, and finally when does Saugatuck (and apparently the CVB) say that enough is enough when it comes to public “art” installations? The beauty of the rose garden is its simplicity which by the way already has a sculpture. I'm not a business owner

If this project requires taxpayer funding, I think it needs to compete with. other proposals the city is considering.

Timestamp

Who are you? (select one)

Overall, do you support installing winter warming stations (fire pits) in downtown Saugatuck and Douglas?

11/21/2025 17:37:12

Business owner in Saugatuck

Strongly support

11/21/2025 17:40:54

Taxpayer

Strongly support

11/21/2025 17:41:05

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

I'm not a business owner

Great job!

11/21/2025 17:42:34

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

I'm not a business owner

Great idea. Do it!

11/21/2025 17:42:54

Saugatuck resident

Strongly oppose

I'm not a business owner

If the fire pit is gasfine. But please, no more wood fire pits adding to air pollution.

11/21/2025 18:12:38

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

I'm not a business owner

It is a fabulous idea!

Neutral / Unsure

Neutral / Unsure

11/21/2025 18:17:27

If you are a business owner, do you believe warming stations would positively impact your business? Yes, positively

Do you have any additional comments, compliments, or concerns regarding the warming stations?

The whole garden does not need redesign to add the warming. Prefer an additional location like by one of the river parks then redoing the garden.

11/21/2025 18:22:42

Saugatuck resident

Neutral / Unsure

I'm not a business owner

11/21/2025 18:32:21

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

I'm not a business owner

11/21/2025 18:49:13

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

I'm not a business owner

Does it really need 4 entrances? It’s a really small park

11/21/2025 18:51:00

Business owner in Saugatuck

Strongly oppose

No, negatively

There is no one here during the winter week days ! Newly issued Urban St. Holiday calendar of events covering Saugatuck area does NOT list the Christmas Parade or Tree Lighting! As of 11/20 the CVB billboard on 196 still has fall ad ! The Shoreline guide distributed up and down the Lakeshore has only 1 advertised business ...Millpond. let's get it together. Once you can bring shoppers here, then you can bring on the warming stations!!

11/21/2025 18:53:03

Township

Strongly support

Yes, positively

If you do it, make sure it puts off good heat. Don’t skimp on the fire

11/21/2025 18:54:55

Douglas Resident

Neutral / Unsure

Neutral / Unsure

Less concrete, One designated warming area with preserved green space!

11/21/2025 19:14:36

Saugatuck resident

Somewhat support

I'm not a business owner

Does the Rose Garden Trust permit this? Will Trust be tapped for future costs of maintenance? How much of Rose Garden will be lost to cement/paving and structure?Seems another location would be more appropriate for this

11/21/2025 19:37:01

Saugatuck resident

Strongly oppose

I'm not a business owner

11/21/2025 19:54:22

Saugatuck resident

Somewhat support

I'm not a business owner

Extending the tourist season is more of interest to the business community …. Interesting to hear what local non-business owners think … I’m supportive although not a business owner

11/21/2025 20:20:08

Saugatuck resident

Neutral / Unsure

I'm not a business owner

The illustrations look as if you are ruining the rose garden. We have restaurants and shops for warming

11/21/2025 20:23:53

Visitor / non-resident

Somewhat support

I'm not a business owner

I like this idea but the renderings make it look like a lot of plants would be removed. I don't like that as an option. That burst of greenery and color in the summer (&shade) is very welcome on warm summer days. I'd be more supportive if the general park plan didn't change much.

11/21/2025 20:27:55

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

I'm not a business owner

11/21/2025 20:42:57

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

I'm not a business owner

Love this!! Thank you!

Timestamp

Who are you? (select one)

Overall, do you support installing winter warming stations (fire pits) in downtown Saugatuck and Douglas?

11/21/2025 20:43:50

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

11/21/2025 20:47:35

Township

Strongly support

11/21/2025 20:49:42

Saugatuck resident

Somewhat oppose

I'm not a business owner

Gas fired? $$$$ & wasteful. Warmth of an open fire is illusionary.

11/21/2025 20:57:19

Visitor / non-resident

Strongly support

I'm not a business owner

I live in Holland and the warming station downtown is so nice. It is used all the time and adds a warm touch to our thriving downtown

11/21/2025 21:05:54

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

I'm not a business owner

Without cost and environmental information, it is too easy to say 'Yes!' More context would be helpful.

11/21/2025 21:06:40

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

I'm not a business owner

Great idea!

11/21/2025 21:22:45

Saugatuck resident

Somewhat oppose

Neutral / Unsure

I am concern with the stipulations that the Mize family wishes were. I’m concerned about the public leaving the bar then going to the warming station

11/21/2025 21:24:17

Business owner in Saugatuck

Strongly support

Yes, positively

great idea! do it

11/21/2025 21:26:53

Douglas resident

Somewhat support

I'm not a business owner

Love this idea!

11/21/2025 21:34:11

Visitor / non-resident

Strongly oppose

I'm not a business owner

I like the idea but this is too drastic of a change.

11/21/2025 21:43:13

Visitor / non-resident

Strongly support

I'm not a business owner

11/21/2025 21:44:21

Son of residents

Somewhat support

I'm not a business owner

11/21/2025 21:45:01

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

I'm not a business owner

11/21/2025 21:45:05

Saugatuck resident

Strongly oppose

I'm not a business owner

11/21/2025 21:53:00

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

11/21/2025 22:18:24

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

I'm not a business owner

11/21/2025 22:20:02

Business owner in Saugatuck

Strongly support

Yes, positively

Holland has fire features around the downtown area.They are always enjoyed by my friends and family while shopping.

11/21/2025 22:45:21

Saugatuck resident

Strongly oppose

I'm not a business owner

This is not an identified priority for city financial resources. This Mize Rose Garden is a dedicated and deeded memorial and should remain untouched. A warming station should only be considered as part of a larger downtown streetscape project.

11/21/2025 23:38:19

Saugatuck resident

Somewhat support

Yes, positively

11/21/2025 23:38:44

Business owner in Saugatuck

Somewhat oppose

Neutral / Unsure

11/22/2025 0:18:21

Visitor / non-resident

Strongly support

I'm not a business owner

11/22/2025 0:54:25

Business owner in Saugatuck

Strongly support

Yes, positively

11/22/2025 1:10:40

Visitor / non-resident

Strongly support

I'm not a business owner

If you are a business owner, do you believe warming stations would positively impact your business?

Do you have any additional comments, compliments, or concerns regarding the warming stations?

Yes, positively

A wonderful idea and hopefully can be funded through grants and sponsorships

I don't know how often I'll sit at the warming station but I think it's nice. Moreso, I like the idea of opening up the garden more. Currently feels closed off/non-public

No one is going to hang around the rose garden getting warm they will go to a store or restaurant and the design is ugly.

Liability, supervision, people come into shops to get warm!

Who are you? (select one)

Overall, do you support installing winter warming stations (fire pits) in downtown Saugatuck and Douglas?

If you are a business owner, do you believe warming stations would positively impact your business?

11/22/2025 1:12:10

Business owner in Saugatuck

Strongly support

Yes, positively

11/22/2025 2:08:12

Saugatuck resident

Somewhat oppose

I'm not a business owner

11/22/2025 2:10:20

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

11/22/2025 2:15:54

Visitor / non-resident

Strongly oppose

I'm not a business owner

11/22/2025 5:34:01

Saugatuck resident

Somewhat support

I'm not a business owner

11/22/2025 6:12:57

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

11/22/2025 6:43:38

Saugatuck resident

Somewhat support

I'm not a business owner

11/22/2025 7:42:24

Business owner in Saugatuck

Strongly support

Yes, positively

Love the idea of the warming station and think the proposed location is wonderful. Question is whether the design is final and consideration will be given to complimenting the current village aesthetic of downtown. Nice work CVB

11/22/2025 7:51:20

Saugatuck resident

Somewhat support

I'm not a business owner

Put it at another park. Leave the garden as is.

Timestamp

Do you have any additional comments, compliments, or concerns regarding the warming stations?

As someone who has word downtown for the last 25 years. You need more heads in beds. I would rather see money spent on a winter festival.

I believe the warming station would be a great addition to the downtown and provide a refresh to a very popular corner of town.

11/22/2025 7:52:54

Saugatuck resident

Neutral / Unsure

I'm not a business owner

I've lived here for 2 decades. I marked "neutral" because I think the rose garden is the wrong place, given the paving over of garden growing space that would be required. The village green would be a much better location, for several reasons, including the fact that the rest rooms and playground are right there and there is a lot of room, including space newly created by killing many grand old rhododendrons. Thank you for all you do and for asking.

11/22/2025 8:06:29

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

I'm not a business owner

Would be nice to see seating with backs but otherwise its a wonderful idea. Will these be gas firepits?

11/22/2025 8:06:33

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

I'm not a business owner

I think it will add a missing component to make downtown cozy and welcoming in the cold months. Please consider some seating. Look at the Holland version at the corner of 8th and College.

11/22/2025 8:15:06

Business owner in Saugatuck

Strongly support

Yes, positively

11/22/2025 8:27:40

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

I'm not a business owner

11/22/2025 8:30:25

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

11/22/2025 8:39:49

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

I'm not a business owner

11/22/2025 8:46:47

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

I'm not a business owner

11/22/2025 8:51:57

Saugatuck resident

Strongly oppose

11/22/2025 8:53:59

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

Great design! A welcoming space in a part of downtown sorely in need of a public space to hang out This looks like a great plan and idea.

I think the renderings are beautiful and strongly support the effort. Inviting to look at, but as a stand alone, it is not a reason to go downtown. As a resident I can’t ever imagine I would use it. When I’m outside in the winter, I want to be active to stay warm. Or maybe something original or playful or an interactive art installation?

I'm not a business owner

Like rectangle fire pits better than round

Timestamp

11/22/2025 9:17:43

Who are you? (select one)

Overall, do you support installing winter warming stations (fire pits) in downtown Saugatuck and Douglas?

If you are a business owner, do you believe warming stations would positively impact your business?

Do you have any additional comments, compliments, or concerns regarding the warming stations?

Saugatuck Township resident

Strongly support

I'm not a business owner

I think it’s a great idea! I often see the one downtown Holland utilized.

11/22/2025 9:58:58

Township resident

Strongly oppose

I'm not a business owner

It is a municipal plaza, not a warming station. Cities stopped paving over green spaces long ago because the open plaza with low brick walls, they are in no way classic, because the spaces were never used. It could not be more out of character for our small town. The present rose garden as is fits perfectly with the Victorian aesthetic of the town and offers a more reflective space than a gimmicky " Instagram" spot. If this is how spaces that were made using large specific donations are disposed of a few years later I would expect no future such donations will be made. Can we please stop trying to emulate other towns and cities with projects that are more about an organization trying to stay relevant than an actual attempt to improve the town.

11/22/2025 10:04:10

Saugatuck resident

Strongly oppose

I'm not a business owner

We don't need it. The garden was a gift to the city. Why ruin it with a tacky warming.

11/22/2025 10:12:43

Saugatuck resident

Somewhat support

I'm not a business owner

Warming stations work in Holland because sidewalks are clear.

11/22/2025 10:46:13

Saugatuck resident

Neutral / Unsure

11/22/2025 11:12:31

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

Yes, positively

11/22/2025 11:52:21

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

I'm not a business owner

The design is excellent. I support the fire pits and warming stations, but would also like to know more about the larger plan. For example, I think 2 warming stations, North and South of Butler gives people different chances at it, maybe one in the public square though I know why the Rose Garden was suggested. Additionally, what is the overall comprehensive plan, put fire in and people will come? It would be great to see a comprehensive plan like hot chocolate trolleys, craft stations for kids, something that really draws people in and can entertain for a bit. The local singing groups, or Christmas Carol players can do small performances. I am suggesting this so they are just not a waystation between bars. ie I wonder if Saugataco could do Mexican hot chocolate, or Base Camp do hot chocolate. I guess what I am suggesting is that we do a better job of doing 1 and done, but think larger and more long term for reputation, economic development and charm of the town.

Please preserve as much of the green space of existing rose garden as possible

11/22/2025 12:10:49

Saugatuck resident

Somewhat support

I'm not a business owner

11/22/2025 12:32:36

Business owner in Saugatuck

Strongly support

Yes, positively

11/22/2025 12:50:26

Visitor / non-resident

Strongly oppose

I'm not a business owner

It just isn’t necessary. Having all of that concrete space just distracts from the quaint feel of the downtown area. This isn’t maintaining the character of the downtown. area. I could see something like this in a more metropolitan city or town, but it just doesn’t fit Saugatuck and I would hate to see it installed..

11/22/2025 13:39:26

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

I'm not a business owner

Anything we can do to promote visiting Saugatuck year-round is great. The plan looks clean and nice too.

11/22/2025 15:21:54

Saugatuck resident

Strongly oppose

11/22/2025 15:40:16

Saugatuck resident

Somewhat support

I'm not a business owner

11/22/2025 16:32:10

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

I'm not a business owner

What a waste of time. This will not bring new people to town - especially when this feature is in a dark park next to a boozy locals bar. No thanks.

love the idea for both towns and the rose garden is a great location

Timestamp

Who are you? (select one)

Overall, do you support installing winter warming stations (fire pits) in downtown Saugatuck and Douglas?

11/22/2025 16:36:09

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

I'm not a business owner

11/22/2025 17:42:46

Business owner in Saugatuck

Strongly support

Yes, positively

11/23/2025 5:25:21

Worker

Somewhat support

Neutral / Unsure

11/23/2025 8:53:40

Saugatuck resident

Neutral / Unsure

I'm not a business owner

11/23/2025 9:58:25

Business owner in Saugatuck

Strongly support

Yes, positively

11/23/2025 10:24:46

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

Yes, positively

11/23/2025 13:12:14

Saugatuck resident

Neutral / Unsure

11/23/2025 14:17:47

Saugatuck resident

Strongly oppose

I'm not a business owner

I am not sure what marketing identified the need for a warming pit. The designs have a number of draw backs including the low bring fence (great for siting mostly empty containers) the removal of plants and art and increase of maintenance cost.

11/24/2025 2:38:35

Saugatuck resident

Somewhat oppose

I'm not a business owner

The Mize rose garden is there for a reason! This design is very bland and uninteresting. 'there must be a better place to put a warming station if you really want one. this is not the location!!!

11/24/2025 9:19:28

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

Neutral / Unsure

What about putting one in the puppet park (village square) across from the bathrooms instead?

11/24/2025 9:21:14

South Haven Resident, works in Strongly support

I'm not a business owner

11/24/2025 9:21:19

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

Yes, positively

11/24/2025 9:23:22

Business owner in Saugatuck

Strongly support

Yes, positively

11/24/2025 9:25:47

Work in Douglas/Saugatuck Are Strongly support

I'm not a business owner

11/24/2025 9:37:23

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

Neutral / Unsure

Super excited about these! I dont know that they will necessarily bring people into town but they will definitely add to the winter aesthetic. One step closer to becoming a year round destination!

11/24/2025 9:48:43

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

I'm not a business owner

I love the idea! Just something to think about - I would suggest building the seating as close as code lets them. If they are too far away you may not feel the heat.

11/24/2025 10:01:07

Business owner in Saugatuck

Strongly support

Yes, positively

11/24/2025 10:11:12

Business owner in Saugatuck

Strongly support

Yes, positively

11/24/2025 10:15:15

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

I'm not a business owner

If you are a business owner, do you believe warming stations would positively impact your business?

Do you have any additional comments, compliments, or concerns regarding the warming stations?

It is a great idea. With Saugatuck having the social district it will be a nice place to have a drink while waiting for a dinner reservation

Never heard of a warming station, seems like a cool concept and idea!

Any public fire feature needs to be absolutely safe. The new rendering proposed for the rose garden, which replaces vegetation with bricks and cement, may make it look more like an urban plaza or a commercial space rather than a natural garden setting.

Would love more winter amenities and events to pull / keep people in town. Holland does a great job of this - would strongly welcome efforts to do the same in Saugatuck

The brick wall concept is fantastic. Will make the garden appear more accessible and will improve the overall downtown feel

Timestamp

Who are you? (select one)

Overall, do you support installing winter warming stations (fire pits) in downtown Saugatuck and Douglas?

If you are a business owner, do you believe warming stations would positively impact your business?

Do you have any additional comments, compliments, or concerns regarding the warming stations?

11/24/2025 10:38:00

Business owner in Saugatuck

Somewhat oppose

No, negatively

No one comes to a town because they have a warming station. Try planning actual events centered around shopping like downtown Holland does for 4th and 1st quarter. This discussion has been had for years yet you continue to do nothing. Even the Coastal Christmas one was thrown together last minute and not by your employee. It was an employee at Glik's.

11/24/2025 10:59:03

Business owner in Saugatuck

Strongly support

Neutral / Unsure

Great idea! I truly hope the city will support this.

11/24/2025 12:13:59

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

Yes, positively

The Rose Garden has always seemed cut off because of the fence. This brings it to life!

11/24/2025 12:48:06

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

I'm not a business owner

Will are be integrated as part of this and we just redid this garden after years of neglect, how will that be considered with this project?

11/24/2025 12:50:20

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

I'm not a business owner

This is a good example of how to encourage shoppers during the shoulder seasons.

11/24/2025 12:56:19

Business manager in Saugatuck Strongly support

Yes, positively

11/24/2025 13:07:29

Business owner in Saugatuck

Strongly support

Yes, positively

11/24/2025 13:09:34

Business owner in Saugatuck

Strongly support

Yes, positively

Love this

11/24/2025 15:38:20

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

I'm not a business owner

Update to my original survey. The wrought iron fence looks so pretty, especially decorated for Christmas. If it could be incorporated into the plan that would be great.

11/24/2025 16:52:29

Business owner in Saugatuck

Strongly support

Yes, positively

Love this! Good for the businesses. Good for the residents. Good aesthetically for the space. Happy to be helpful. Terry Walker, Lulu Cadieux.

11/24/2025 17:25:32

Business owner in Saugatuck

Strongly support

Yes, positively

This is great, anything the city can do to bring in winter customers is a vote for us.

11/24/2025 19:59:24

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

I'm not a business owner

11/24/2025 23:17:31

Resident and business owners Strongly support

Yes, positively

I think the tall iron fencing is unwelcoming and should be removed. It would be nice to have the garden to be more welcoming.

11/25/2025 14:10:26

Saugatuck resident

Strongly oppose

I'm not a business owner

I treasure the Rose Garden. This idea isn't really needed and it will damage the peace and serenity of the garden.

11/25/2025 14:21:42

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

I'm not a business owner

Piped in music would be fun.

11/25/2025 14:47:40

Saugatuck resident

Neutral / Unsure

I'm not a business owner

11/25/2025 15:57:04

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

I'm not a business owner

11/25/2025 17:19:34

Business owner in Saugatuck

Strongly support

Yes, positively

11/25/2025 21:10:28

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

11/25/2025 22:49:41

Saugatuck resident

Somewhat support

Neutral / Unsure

11/26/2025 10:30:58

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

I'm not a business owner

Timestamp

Who are you? (select one)

Overall, do you support installing winter warming stations (fire pits) in downtown Saugatuck and Douglas?

If you are a business owner, do you believe warming stations would positively impact your business?

Do you have any additional comments, compliments, or concerns regarding the warming stations?

Why do you insist we need a 'modern' warming station on in the most congested part of downtown. ?leave the current pRk alone. The designed warming station does not reflect our downtown image. ng station that has nothing in common with our rose garden?You are destroying a peaceful retreat and quiet for dedicated park. The ‘modern’ design will look out of place. Put it in Coghlin Park or a Water Street park! The business owners need your support. Why not partner with them to find out how to improve their crazy lives! DONE!

11/26/2025 13:28:26

Saugatuck resident

Strongly oppose

I'm not a business owner

11/26/2025 13:57:27

Property Owner

Somewhat support

I'm not a business owner

11/28/2025 2:59:15

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

Yes, positively

11/28/2025 3:18:42

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

I'm not a business owner

11/29/2025 11:00:18

Saugatuck resident

Neutral / Unsure

Neutral / Unsure

I am concern what the Mize family intent was for the Rose Garden.

11/30/2025 16:07:08

Business owner in Saugatuck

Strongly support

Neutral / Unsure

ANYTHING to bring more winter guests like neighboring communities do-we miss such a HUGE opportunity to help our businesses in the off season, especially over the holidays I do not agree with the redesigning of the Victorian Rose Garden. Only a short 25 years ago, Mize donated nearly half a million dollars. The city readily accepted her generous donation with the intent to create a memorial Victorian Rose Garden on a corner of town that needed beautification. Saugatuck was incorporated in 1868 - in the Victorian Era. Many town buildings were built in that era. By definition, Victorian gardens are characterized by bold color, exotic plants, often laid out in formal,symmetrical flowerbeds key features usually include ornate elements like statues and fencing and shaded pathways. I would guess that her intention with her generous donation was not to have it all deconstructed years later with a trendy fire pit and brick sitting wall. How does this design complement a Victorian garden and the character of our downtown? What is so wrong with having a tranquil park where one can seek solace amongst the thousands of tourists that flock to our town? City council and the Parks Commission need to leave the Rose Garden in its’ intended serene form. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. Especially when a generous donor expected the city to be a good steward of that donation. City council and the Parks Commission need to consider incorporating the firepit in the future redesigning of the Village Square Park near the empty green space by the Burr Tillstrom statue.

12/1/2025 18:52:51

Part-time resident. Own a secon Neutral / Unsure

I'm not a business owner

12/5/2025 17:20:34

Business owner in Saugatuck

Strongly support

Yes, positively

12/8/2025 14:36:55

Douglas resident

Somewhat support

I'm not a business owner

12/9/2025 8:35:27

Business owner in Saugatuck

Somewhat support

Yes, positively

12/10/2025 10:01:37

I live 10 min from down town.

Somewhat oppose

I'm not a business owner

Not this design and not this location

I was early this week and the only person using the warming station was a homeless man with his buggy. I see the warming station as a smoking station for the bars in the winter and for the homeless. I have seen men pee and puke in the rose garden.

Timestamp

Who are you? (select one)

Overall, do you support installing winter warming stations (fire pits) in downtown Saugatuck and Douglas?

If you are a business owner, do you believe warming stations would positively impact your business?

Do you have any additional comments, compliments, or concerns regarding the warming stations?

While your schematic's are lovely, none of the drawings convey roses. Only low maintenance greens are shown. The project will absorb a cost beyond that which is in the general fund to care for the garden in the future. Are those monies being misused to remove the fence etc. Who is to maintain the garden now? I understand, the donor left approximately one hundred thousand for the continued care of the garden. Over the years the city has negleted drawings display roses. The intent of the gift was to establish a rose garden honoring the parents of the donor. Monies were put into the General Fund to maintain the rose garden. Will those monies be absorbed for this redo? Will the outside landscape firm be retained? The donation from the CVB will hardly cover the project. Yesterday, I and a employee passed the warming station in Holland. The only individual warming was a homeless man on a bicycle. The proximity of the Sandbar also invites potential lude activity as the fence is gone. Have consideration been given to these issues. The city failed to address the individual living at the Gazebo all summer. The issue was waited out for the weather to change. No leadership there for sure. While there is some merit in updating the garden there are many other projects that are more pertinent. What about Park street concerns, the easement repairs at the Butler Pantry, the proposed rest room at the south part of town???? While these projects are not sexy, they need to be addressed!

12/10/2025 10:06:30

Saugatuck resident

Somewhat oppose

Neutral / Unsure

12/15/2025 10:40:14

Saugatuck resident

Strongly support

I'm not a business owner

12/16/2025 11:44:05

Saugatuck Township resident

Strongly support

Yes, positively