Fayetteville Council explores youth protection strategies beyond curfew enforcement

In a spirited City Council Special Meeting held on May 5, 2025, in Fayetteville, North Carolina, council members engaged in a passionate discussion about youth crime and community safety. The meeting, marked by a sense of urgency and collaboration, focused on innovative solutions to address rising concerns about juvenile delinquency.

Council member Majandros proposed renaming the controversial "curfew" initiative to the "City Youth Protection Ordinance," suggesting that the term "curfew" carries negative connotations. He emphasized the need for a collective city effort, urging mentors, pastors, and community leaders to unite in tackling youth crime. "United we stand," he declared, advocating for a community-driven approach to foster positive change.

Among the ideas presented was the concept of a "junior mayor," a youth representative who could engage with city council and influence policies affecting young people. Majandros also suggested organizing midnight basketball games at local recreation centers, providing a safe space for youth to gather under police supervision. He highlighted the importance of reintroducing a system where youth would check in with their IDs at recreation centers, ensuring accountability and safety.

Council member McNair echoed these sentiments, proposing scholarships for parents to support summer workshops and camps for children. He emphasized the need for educational initiatives that involve both parents and children, aiming to prevent violations of the proposed ordinance.

However, not all council members were in favor of the curfew. Council member Benavente raised concerns about the effectiveness of such measures, citing data from the ACLU indicating that curfews have not successfully reduced juvenile crime in other cities. He argued that the focus should be on supportive measures rather than punitive ones, stating, "We don't have to harm people to get them help."

The discussion also touched on the logistical challenges of enforcing a curfew, particularly the potential consequences for juveniles who might be left without parental supervision. Concerns were raised about the city's role in "babysitting" youth if parents could not be reached.

As the meeting concluded, it was clear that while the council members were divided on the curfew proposal, there was a shared commitment to exploring alternative solutions that prioritize the well-being of Fayetteville's youth. The dialogue underscored the importance of community involvement and innovative thinking in addressing the complex issue of youth crime, leaving residents hopeful for a collaborative path forward.