The operators of three Northgate bars that are regularly overcrowded are the targets of tougher regulations approved Thursday night by the city council.
Fire chief Jonathan McMahan spoke on behalf of giving firefighters and police the option of immediately shutting down businesses for up to 24 hours.
McMahan says overcrowding is a “360 public safety issue”.
The revised ordinance can be used by the fire and police departments starting April 1.
Click below for comments from College Station fire chief Jonathan McMahan and fire marshal Eric Dotson.
Revised ordinance language courtesy of the city of College Station:
(3) (a) Section 107.6.1 is added:
107.6.1 Certificate of Occupancy Temporary Suspension. The Fire Code Official or any member of the Fire Department designated by the Fire Code Official, the Chief of Police, or any member of the Police Department designated by the Chief of Police is authorized, in writing, to immediately suspend a Certificate of Occupancy for a twenty-four (24) hour period where it is determined that the building or structure or portion thereof is Overcrowded, violating any life safety regulation or ordinance or violating any other ordinance adopted by this code. Within one (1) business day after the suspension, a person may submit a written appeal to the City Manager appealing the Certificate of Occupancy Temporary Suspension. The City Manager’s decision is final.