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Council approves street closures and policing plan for Eagle Park Halloween event
Summary
Belmont City Council unanimously approved an ordinance allowing street closures in the Eagle Park neighborhood for Halloween, after the police chief outlined barricade staffing, roving officers and an HOA‑funded off‑duty officer to improve safety for the expanding event.
Belmont City Council on Oct. 7 approved an ordinance to close streets in the Eagle Park neighborhood for an expanded Halloween trick‑or‑treat event on Oct. 31.
Chief Falls briefed council on concerns raised during prior years, including large crowds, parking and isolated reports of property damage. The department plans to staff barricaded entry/exit points with officers, add a roving officer visible within the neighborhood, and extend policing hours to reduce late‑night activity. The homeowners association (through a property‑management firm) will fund four off‑duty officers for the event, including coverage for extended hours.
Council members who moved the item from consent to the regular agenda said they wanted a brief discussion with police about safety measures given the event’s growth. Chief Falls emphasized the officers’ role in keeping emergency access clear and suggested encouraging residents to turn off decorative lights to discourage late visitors.
The ordinance passed on a unanimous voice vote. Council and staff urged residents to plan for parking and follow safety guidance; the closure and enforcement plan will be implemented under the city’s special‑events permitting process.
Next steps: Police will staff barricades and roving positions as described; the HOA will pay for off‑duty officers through the permitting process.
