NEW: Providence City Council to Tackle Nightclub Problems
Wednesday, January 30, 2013
In an effort to improve safety in and around nightclubs in downtown Providence, the Providence City Council will submit a number of proposals for review and have a second round of legislation next month.
According to Majority Leader Seth Yurdin, the council has submitted three ordinances and four resolutions based on recommendations made in a January report that studied entertainment licensing and nightclub safety issues.
“Our priority is to ensure the safe enjoyment of the city’s nighttime arts, entertainment, and cultural events,” Yurdin said. “Unfortunately, we’ve had too many incidents that impair public safety, and undermine the city’s efforts to maintain and expand a dynamic and robust nightlife.”
GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLASTYurdin says the legislation addresses safety “first and foremost” but also touches on internal administrative policies and procedures “with the goal of making licensing information and decisions more accessible to the public, and more consistent and reliable for license holders.”
The ordinances will focus on three recurring issues from the 2012 hearings.
First, a “Floor Host Ordinance” will attempt to clarify the license application process and, according to the council, “closes a loophole and strengthens the training requirements for individuals who work as a floor hosts at alcohol-serving establishments.”
Second, an amendment to the “Commercial Parking Lot Ordinance” would change the requirements parking lots and garages located near nightclubs have to adhere to in order to obtain or keep their licenses.
The final change would require individuals who are paid to promote entertainment and shows to obtain an annual license from the city.
Councilman Nicholas Narducci, who co-sponsored the legislation, said Providence “cannot continue to have outbreaks of violence at nightclubs.”
“These ordinances will put new rules and regulations in place to increase safety, and create more accountability,” he said.
Related Articles
- More Violence Erupts Outside PEDP-Connected Nightclub
- NEW: Prov. Council to Review Licensing Laws after Downtown Nightclub Incidents
- New Nightclub Laws Make Downtown Safer
- Providence Council Releases Report on Nightclub Safety
- State House Report: Gay Marraige, Nightclubs & the Homeless Bill of Rights
