Parental exceptions are key part of Seaford juvenile curfew

SEAFORD — A juvenile curfew that can be enacted solely by a mayor’s executive order will be part of city code following a 30-day advertising period.

One component of the new ordinance — which would run 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. seven days a week for those 17 or younger who are not emancipated — are the exceptions that could be given via parental applications with the city.

On Tuesday, City Council approved the second reading of the ordinance and adopted it. During its first reading July 23, Councilwoman Stephanie Grassett asked that the ordinance accommodate parents whose children would qualify for exceptions.

“The concern that was expressed to staff was we need to make this simple for parents that have children that are working and need to be out,” said city manager Charles Anderson.

In response, Seaford’s information technology department and police created an application to request such exceptions. It will be available on the city website.

Exceptions include:

• When a child is accompanied by a parent, a guardian or an authorized adult
• During emergencies
• When an individual is exercising First Amendment rights, such as freedom of religion, free speech or right of assembly
• When a reasonable necessity is demonstrated
• When a youth is returning directly home from a specific activity, such as a school gathering or sport event
• When there is a special permit issued by the city
• When someone is legally employed and traveling to or from work

Police Chief Marshall Craft Jr. said the form is very comprehensive, including information and contacts for young people and their parents.

“It captures all the particulars,” he said, noting that economic development director Trisha Newcomer was instrumental in creating the form. “It is an excellent tool for parents to be responsible for their children.”

Councilwoman Grassett appreciated the effort, saying, “I just want to thank you for working on the form. I spent 18 years as a school administrator and 12 before that (as) a teacher and counselor. Trying to make things acceptable for parents is really important, to make sure that good parents have the ability to comply.”