Berkley City Council debates measures to curb violence at events

On Monday, the Berkley City Council convened to address rising violence at local events, particularly the longstanding "Berkley Days" festival, which has faced disruptions due to fights among attendees. The council is considering a ban on carnivals in response to these incidents, which have necessitated significant law enforcement presence in recent years. Councilmember Steven Baker emphasized the need to reimagine the event to ensure safety while maintaining its tradition. In addition to the carnival discussions, Mayor Bridget Dean proposed new zoning laws aimed at regulating the locations of firearm retailers in the city. The proposed restrictions would confine gun stores to specific retail districts, maintaining a buffer zone of 1,000 feet from schools and from each other. This initiative follows public backlash against a proposed gun shop in downtown Berkley, which withdrew its application amid community concerns. Residents expressed mixed opinions during the council meeting. Some, like Marc Keast, a former prosecutor involved in the Oxford High School shooting cases, advocated for stricter regulations to prevent access to firearms by troubled youth. Conversely, other residents voiced their opposition to the proposed restrictions, arguing that it sets a concerning precedent for business operations in the city. The council's discussions reflect a broader concern for community safety and the need to balance tradition with modern challenges. Any new zoning ordinances will require approval from both the planning commission and the city council, indicating that further deliberation and community input will shape the final decisions.