Manistee Business Owner Faced With Tough Decision as Bird Feeder Ban Upheld in Downtown Area

Co-owner Nikki Bromley of the Gold & Silver Exchange in downtown Manistee expressed reluctance in leaving the city after 13 years, but explained that the business was fined $500 for keeping their feeder, which was eventually reduced to $125 after contesting the ticket in court. Despite gathering over 1,000 signatures on a petition to reverse the ban, the city remained firm on their decision.

The ban on bird feeders in the downtown area was implemented in February after complaints about space being taken up and litter being created on the streets. Bromley is now exploring other options for the business and is considering relocating to a nearby town. The city has declined to comment on the situation.

In February, a ban was implemented in downtown Manistee on bird feeders due to complaints about space being taken up and litter being created on the streets. Despite protests from over 1,000 signatures on a petition and an appeal that reduced a fine of $500 to $125, co-owner Nikki Bromley expressed reluctance in leaving her business after 13 years but ultimately decided it was time to move on as they were fined for keeping their feeder near their store.