Exploring Philadelphia City Councils Proposals for Curfew on Businesses in an Open-Air Drug Market – My MBA Career

Last Updated on January 28, 2024 by Robert C. Hoopes

City Councilmember Quetcy Lozada has proposed a new bill that could potentially impact businesses in Philadelphia’s Kensington neighborhood. The bill, if passed, would introduce a curfew for certain commercial establishments and restaurants in the area, specifically along Kensington Avenue. These businesses would be required to close their doors between the hours of 11 p.m. and 6 a.m.

Kensington has become internationally known for its open-air drug market and its high rates of addiction and crime. Drug-related deaths have particularly affected this neighborhood, with over 1,400 fatalities occurring in Philadelphia alone in the year 2022. On the streets of Kensington, drug users can often be spotted openly consuming drugs and injecting themselves with needles. The use of the drug xylazine has led to infected wounds and further complications for these individuals.

The crime levels in Kensington are also alarmingly high, making it one of the most dangerous areas in the city. Due to these ongoing issues, Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker has expressed her support for Councilmember Lozada’s legislation. The mayor believes that measures like curfews on businesses can address the social problems and illegal drug activities that significantly impact the quality of life in neighborhoods like Kensington.

Councilmember Lozada’s bill is part of a comprehensive legislative package that includes additional initiatives. One such initiative is the requirement for quarterly reports on the usage of opioid antidotes by first responders. Another necessary step is the collection of data on illegal encampments across the city. These comprehensive measures aim to tackle the multi-faceted issues associated with addiction and public safety.

Mayor Parker has declared a public safety emergency and has entrusted Police Commissioner Kevin Bethel and other city partners with the task of developing strategies to combat the open-air drug markets in Kensington. Deputy Commissioner Pedro Rosario has been appointed to lead the Philadelphia Police Department’s efforts in addressing public safety concerns in the neighborhood. This appointment aligns with the mayor’s “100-Day Action Plan,” which is designed to make swift progress in addressing these pressing issues.

The bill will now undergo the legislative process in City Council. Mayor Parker is eager to collaborate with Councilmember Lozada to advance this critical legislation. It will be interesting to see how these measures, if passed, will impact the neighborhood and contribute to its revitalization efforts.