DETROIT, Mich. — A string of new bars and restaurants on Kercheval Avenue near Van Dyke has become a flash point on Detroit’s east side after District 5 Council Member Renata Miller asked city departments to look into the alcohol-serving businesses there.
Miller’s memo sought information, a zoning-compliance review and a look at neighborhood impact. It named Barkside, Two Birds, Our House Café Bistro, the new Grandma Bob’s Pizza location, a liquor store and Bar 9, a women’s sports bar that has not opened yet.
Some neighbors worry about having several bars close to the Butzel Family Community Center and Garvey Academy. Others, many from West Village, Islandview and Charlevoix Village, have pushed back, saying the review felt like an attack on small, independent shops. Several owners told council members the memo caught them off guard.
Records from the Buildings, Safety Engineering and Environmental Department, the city agency known as BSEED, showed the businesses were in good standing on licenses and zoning. A few had lapsed certificates of compliance but were already working through correction orders.
Kai Paige, Miller’s chief of staff, said the office is not pursuing any action and plans to meet with owners across the district. Miller defended her questions at a recent council meeting, saying it is her job to make sure city rules are followed.
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