BESSEMER - The Bessemer City Council took action to curb the increase in incidents of vandalism and curfew violations within the City; particularly in Bluff Valley Park.

The Curfew Ordinance was reviewed and approved by the Sheriff and the City Attorney. Violations will result in fines of $50 for the first violation, up to $250 for the second violation and up to $500 for subsequent violations.  A second Ordinance passed its first reading and that pertains to the establishment of a curfew for the park itself. If the ordinance is passed at a second hearing, the hours that Bluff Valley Park will be opened to the public will be restricted to 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM. There will be three exceptions to those hours including public events approved by the City Manager. 

At the previous City Council meeting, the Council members approved the purchase of surveillance equipment for the park.

Both ordinances passed the council with a unanimous vote. There will be a public hearing on both issues on October fourth.

The City Council interviewed four individuals who have applied to fill the vacancy on the City Council. The applicants were: Doug Olsen, Allen Archie, Glen Pavlovich and Paul Semmerling. There will be a special meeting of the City Council tonight and at that meeting an appointment is expected to be made.