TAMPA, Fla. — A vote to impose a curfew on most youth citywide in Tampa is now postponed.
The proposal was born out of a shooting in Ybor City that killed two people, including a 14-year-old. Sixteen other people were injured the weekend before Halloween.
The delay in voting comes as critics question whether the curfew would actually reduce violent crime. City council officials are exploring other options to add including more investment in youth programs and activities.
LaMaria Smith of Tampa said she believes the curfew would be the first step to sparing children their lives and parents the grief.
"I fully want to see Tampa finally step up and do what's right," Smith said.
Smith's daughter Savannah Mathis was shot and killed in December 2021 while driving with her sister near Julian B. Lane Park. Smith said they were in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Through grief, Smith found a mission to help prevent crime.
The city council said they don't have enough information on how the curfew would keep people safe. The curfew would mean anyone under 16 must be indoors by 11 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and by midnight, Friday and Saturday. It passed the first reading last month.
As the council weighs its decision on the curfew, they are also looking into options to boost youth activity and programs.
"I saw the impact that had on me," said Jalem Robinson, CEO and founder of "Brothers United Building Brothers Alliance," or B.U.B.B.A.
His non-profit mentorship program is aimed at helping men and boys in Tampa, which consists of academic support, along with services that help engage and empower them.
Robinson said part of the reason why youth may turn to a dangerous lifestyle is because they need something to do. He stresses the importance of funding such programs that center around youth. The exposure to different opportunities like field trips provides purpose and a better path in life.
"Things that can enrich them and enhance their lives," Robinson said.
Robinson said what's also worked for his non-profit is allowing boys to have space to be themselves with others and allowing them to learn from their mistakes without fear of judgment.
"A lot of times they just haven't been shown something productive. They haven't been engaged," Robinson said.
Smith echoes the need to invest in more youth programs and ensuring kids have safe environments to occupy themselves with. She's had experience working with juveniles as a correction officer and previous positions.
"They'll be around the wrong people and the wrong people that's mentoring them to do bad things," she said. "I feel like the curfew is a number one start and then we can start with opening programs for these kids."
Tampa City Council will also review reports from staff regarding plans to create youth activities on Friday and Saturday nights, along with improving safety in Ybor City parking lots and additional investments to lighting, cameras, and police presence, according to the agenda.
Recently, Tampa Police, along with Parks & Rec, announced they are hoping to expand its "Stay and Play" program in response to criticism of the curfew. Police are seeking to apply up to $280,000 to an expansion of youth services.