Long Beach Considers Bar Curfew in Belmont Shore Amidst Violence

Proposed Bar Curfew in Belmont Shore

• 🌃 The Long Beach City Council is considering a temporary midnight curfew for bars and alcohol-serving businesses in the popular Belmont Shore area.
• 🗓️ This curfew would likely last for about a year and is intended to address a recent string of violence.

Safety Concerns and Community Response

• 🚨 The proposal comes after several violent incidents, including a deadly shooting last month and a deadly stabbing last year.
• 🗣️ Residents and frequent visitors express that safety must come first, with some supporting a curfew and others preferring an increased police presence.
• 💬 Community members feel that risky behaviors increase after midnight and that action is needed to ensure people can enjoy the area safely.

Alternative Safety Measures

• 🚓 In addition to a curfew, the city is exploring options such as a stepped-up police presence as another way to enhance safety.
• ⚖️ The city manager will have 45 days to develop a late-night safety plan if the council decides to move forward with the proposal.

Business Impact

• 📉 A curfew would likely impact businesses in the Belmont Shore area, particularly bars, which are popular in the evenings.
• ❓ Bar owners were not available for comment as they were preparing to attend the city council meeting where the proposal was being discussed.