Memorial Day marks beginning of summer curfew for KC teens
KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) - Beginning on May 23 and continuing through the last Sunday of September, a curfew is in place for teenagers across the metro.
The main goal of the ordinance is to lower violence in busier areas and keep kids and teenagers safe. The curfew began in 2011 after a shooting occurred at the Country Club Plaza. Mayor Sly James was in the area at the time of the shooting.
The following areas are part of the curfew for those under 18 between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m:
- 18th and Vine
- Central Business District
- Country Club Plaza
- Westport
- Zona Rosa Shopping District
Those under 18 who are found in these areas without a parent or guardian can receive up to a $500 fine.
The hours for other areas outside of the five previously listed are 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. for children 15 and under.
For those who are 16 to 18, the hours are 11 p.m. to 6 a.m.
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Monique Johnston is the Executive Director of Youth Ambassadors and a mom herself.
She said it’s an interesting dynamic, knowing kids want to experience all the city has to offer, but she has seen things go sour.
“I think where we run into issues is when there are large groups of youth. And they’re out without adult supervisor and that’s when things can go wrong‚” she said. “Sometimes it can be a bother for teens who don’t want that type of structure, but I think safety is at the center of this.”
It’s also a responsibility that lies on parents themselves. A curfew violation could mean parents get slapped with a fine if their teen is out without them or a guardian between 9 p.m. and 6 a.m.
Parents like Jenna Pizzo are onboard to keep her kids safe, but she questions how the curfew is actually enforced and if it’s consistent.
“I think it’ll probably be hard to enforce. Just the different fines, the different times for different ages,” she hesitated. “It’s gonna be a lot of extra work for law enforcement to enforce.”
She still believes the major responsibility lies with parents themselves. “I probably wouldn’t let my girls out by themselves without their parent anyways.”
“Westport has a long tradition as one of Kansas City’s premier entertainment districts, and visitors have come to expect and respect its strict ID enforcement. While Westport nightlife establishments serve guests 21 and over, and streets are closed into the entertainment district on weekends, we the City’s reinstated summer curfew as a proactive step to promote safety. We remain in close coordination with City officials and law enforcement to help ensure a secure, welcoming environment for all.”
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