CHARLEVOIX -- The outdoor public fireplace that stirred up controversy in downtown Charlevoix now has a new look.
The new plan calls for a three foot tall structure with an oval shape, which is a big change from the initial plan to build a 20-foot tall community fireplace.
"What we've done is brought it down to a something that is maybe knee height and people can gather around it and see over it and be an interactive space," Landscape designer Richard Hitz said.
The city initially went back to the drawing board after a huge public backlash when it began building the 20-foot structure in a East Park.
Many worried that it would block the harbor view the town is known for, but after months of discussion some believe this is a compromised design that will work.
"I think it will be a big draw, especially because we always need room for seats. Fire and water are draws and it would just be an attraction," Planning Commission member Becky Doan explained.
Both the Downtown Development Authority and the City Planning Commission recommended City Council move forward with this project. But there are some that still believe there is no need for a downtown fireplace.
"This community two months, three months really it's fine, but when everything clears out and there's just not that much activity to support the fireplace," Charlevoix resident Vic Stilson explained.
City Council will hold one more public hearing on March 18th to decide the projects fate.
