St. Joseph City Commissioners have tabled a Planned Unit Development amendment requested for the concessions area at Silver Beach County Park so they can get more information from Berrien County about plans to alleviate traffic congestion around the attraction this summer.
At their regular meeting on Monday, commissioners were told the park concession operator is seeking to add a patio on the east side of the concessions building, seating for more than 20 people, two sunshades, two cargo containers for more sales, and a food truck to the concessions area. However, commissioners balked at letting the project proceed before they get more parking information from the county.
Commissioner Tess Ulrey told us she supports the proposed improvements, but there are still too many questions about the parking and traffic situation.
“I feel like, from my perspective, it’s irresponsible to pass anything without considering the larger picture,” Ulrey said. “So that’s just what I think we need to discuss further.”
Commissioners Michael Fernandez and Michael Sarola had similar concerns.
Berrien County Parks Director Jill Adams jumped in and reiterated to commissioners the county’s plans for this year to add another vehicle entry lane. City Manager Emily Hackworth also said the city has been meeting with the county for ongoing updates on the situation. Commissioners then tabled the concessions permit request until their next meeting to get more specifics.
Mayor Brook Thomas said it would be a shame to hold up the request from the concessioner, and this is a compromise.
“I think it’s smart that we’re taking a pause,” Thomas said. “We’re going to gather more information, talk some more about it, and make an informed decision at the next meeting. Hopefully — I guess I can’t speak for what happens at the next meeting — but that’s the idea.”
Commissioners want to know how much the new entrance lane will speed up the average wait time for a car entering the park. Adams told them at a meeting last month the county is also researching technology for a pay-by-plate option, which could possibly come next year.
The question of the concessions permit will be revisited in three weeks when the city commission meets again.
