TO: Mayor and Members of City Council
THRU: Ms. Lachelle H. Pulliam, City Attorney
FROM: Ms. Erin Swinney, Police Attorney
DATE: June 23, 2025
RE:
Title
Adopt Amended Youth Protection Safety Ordinance
end
COUNCIL DISTRICT(S):
Council District(s)
All
b
Relationship To Strategic Plan:
Goal 1: Safe and Secure Community
Goal IV: Desirable Place to Live, Work and Recreate
FY26 Council Strategic Priority 1: Develop a comprehensive approach to community safety.
Executive Summary:
At its May 5, 2025 special meeting, the City Council approved the adoption of a Youth Protection Safety Ordinance. The proposed ordinance aims to protect juveniles from victimization and exposure to criminal activity by establishing a curfew for juveniles 16 years of age and under. Violators of the ordinance may be subject to criminal penalties. The proposed ordinance was introduced at the May 12, 2025 regular meeting of the City Council and adopted on May 27, 2025. At its June 9, 2025 meeting, Council approved an amendment to the ordinance, removing the penalties for juveniles.
Background:
The City has experienced an increase in gun violence over the last several months. In an effort to address this increase, Mayor Colvin called a special meeting to discuss public safety concerns and as well as options to reduce incidences of gun violence. During that meeting, Council approved the implementation of a City-wide curfew for juveniles 16 years of age and under, that mirrors the City of Charlotte’s Youth Protection Ordinance. Council approved certain amendments to the ordinance, the latest of which removes penalties for juveniles.
Issues/Analysis:
Fayetteville has experienced an increase in gun violence.
Budget Impact:
Unknown
Options:
1. Adopt the amended Youth Protection Safety Ordinance.
2. Reject the amended Youth Protection Safety Ordinance.
Recommended Action:
Adopt the amended Youth Protection Safety Ordinance.
Attachments:
Amended Youth Protection Safety Ordinance
Redlined Youth Protection Safety Ordinance