Cool Springs officials propose expanding downtown ambassador program to enhance safety

The Fayetteville City Council convened on May 27, 2025, to discuss various initiatives aimed at enhancing community safety and support programs. The meeting, which lasted approximately four hours, included significant discussions on the downtown ambassador program and event security measures.

The session began with a report on the ambassador program, which has been instrumental in improving safety and visibility in downtown Fayetteville. Councilman Benavente raised questions about enhancing the program, suggesting that additional training for ambassadors could improve their effectiveness, particularly regarding safety protocols. He emphasized the need for more full-time positions to ensure adequate coverage throughout the week, proposing an increase from the current staffing of one full-time and one part-time ambassador to three full-time positions.

In response, representatives from the ambassador program indicated that they had successfully transitioned one part-time position to full-time with recent funding, allowing for better service delivery. They expressed a desire for further discussions on training and expansion, highlighting the importance of aligning ambassador schedules with peak downtown traffic times.

The council also addressed upcoming changes to event security requirements, particularly concerning clear bag policies and additional safety measures for event producers. Council members acknowledged the necessity of these enhancements while expressing concerns about the potential financial burden on event organizers. They encouraged open dialogue to ensure that security improvements do not hinder the viability of events in the city.

Councilman Benavente proposed a motion to support the ambassador program's expansion and additional training, emphasizing the program's success and the community's reliance on its services. The council agreed to consider this motion in future budget discussions, recognizing the importance of enhancing safety measures in downtown Fayetteville.

Overall, the meeting underscored the council's commitment to improving community safety and support services, with plans for further discussions and budget considerations to address these initiatives in the coming fiscal year.