Serving Lucas, Ottawa, Sandusky and Wood Counties
The Village of Oak Harbor is considering creating a Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area (DORA) in the downtown district, following approval by village council. This initiative builds on the village's ongoing efforts to revitalize downtown, complementing Oak Harbor's recently established Revitalization District.
The DORA would contribute to a welcoming destination for residents and visitors to enjoy dining, shopping, and entertainment while responsibly consuming alcoholic beverages within the designated area. Both the DORA and the Revitalization District align with the village's Comprehensive Community Action Plan, which prioritizes downtown development and creating recreational opportunities along the Portage River.
"We have had residents and business owners express interest in a DORA for some time,” Oak Harbor mayor Quinton Babcock said. “After consulting with neighboring communities that have DORAs as well as a planning professional, we feel comfortable and confident that the DORA will add to the current recreational opportunities available downtown and support our business owners.”
Oak Harbor would join other Ottawa County communities—including Elmore and Port Clinton—in offering designated outdoor refreshment areas. Similar to these communities, the proposed DORA would operate year-round, seven days per week from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Patrons would be able to purchase alcoholic beverages from participating businesses and enjoy them within the approved district.
In addition to creating everyday opportunities for community members to enjoy downtown, the initiative would also have the potential to enhance community events, such as the Apple Festival, Fourth of July celebrations, and the Summer Concert Series at the Log Cabin.
"We are collaborating with the Village on the proposed DORA and are looking forward to integrating it with our events," Oak Harbor Area Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Sarah Beavers said. "We think this will be a win for the community and our business owners."
The proposed DORA encompasses Flat Iron Park to Locust Street, including all of Water Street, Mill Street, and a portion of Main Street and Church Street near Adolphus Kraemer Park.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience within the DORA, the Oak Harbor police department will oversee enforcement and security, clearly marked signage will indicate DORA boundaries, alcoholic beverages must be carried in official DORA cups provided by the Village of Oak Harbor or the Oak Harbor Area Chamber of Commerce, and participating businesses and the village will maintain regular trash collection and sanitation efforts.
"Whether it's making it safer for children to walk to school or making it more fun to hang out downtown, we are taking a comprehensive approach to strengthening our community,” Babcock said. “DORA is one piece of the puzzle for a vibrant and engaging downtown, supporting local businesses, and supporting community connections.”
There will be a third reading of the DORA resolution at the April 7 regular council meeting at 7 p.m. At that time, council is anticipated to vote on whether to accept the DORA as proposed.
Residents are encouraged to reach out to Mayor Babcock with any thoughts, questions, or concerns. He can be reached via email at qbabcock@oakharbor.oh.us.
