During a recent government meeting in Hartsville, significant discussions centered around the proposed curfew ordinance, designated as Ordinance 4475. Community member Hillary Rondo voiced concerns regarding the effectiveness of curfews, citing research from the Brookings Institute and the Campbell Collaboration, which suggest that curfews may lead to unintended consequences such as racial profiling and strained police-youth relationships. Rondo urged the council to reconsider the curfew's potential negative impacts, particularly in a community already facing tensions.

Despite these concerns, the council proceeded to vote on the ordinance, which aims to adjust the existing curfew from midnight to 11:00 PM. Chief of Police Nell provided insights, emphasizing that the curfew has been in place for several years without any violations reported during his tenure. He noted that the ordinance would include a structured notification process for parents, involving written warnings and documentation for any infractions.

The council unanimously approved Ordinance 4475, moving forward with the revised curfew regulations.

In addition to the curfew discussion, the council also addressed several other ordinances. Ordinance 4476, which authorizes the purchase of property for a new lift station as part of the South Carolina Infrastructure Improvement Plan, was approved. The property, located at 715 Lynwood Place, was acquired for $6,000.

Ordinance 4477, aimed at amending the city’s zoning code regarding signs, was also approved. This ordinance seeks to clarify language around illuminated signs in residential and agricultural districts, ensuring consistency across regulations.

Furthermore, Ordinance 4478, which involves leasing a portion of an alleyway for police department access, and Ordinance 4479, which adds a definition for short-term rentals to the zoning code, were both approved without opposition. The latter ordinance is intended to facilitate future discussions on potential regulations for short-term rentals in the area.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the council's commitment to addressing community concerns while also advancing infrastructure and regulatory improvements in Hartsville.