By Anthony F. Irwin
One month removed from the first meeting devoted to improving safety in Downtown Fullerton owners from every major restaurant and bar reconvened to discuss how to further the progress they have already made.
Owners agreed to have security guards wear bright yellow jackets at closing time and form something of a task force to deter fights outside bars. The purpose of the jackets is to present a visual deterrent to troublemakers. Police officials have said they sometimes have a hard time spotting security guards when responding to calls for service between 1:30-2 a.m. – a time when thousands of people spill onto the streets and into parking lots.
Different bars have different dress codes. The jackets will present a united front, police officials said.
Joe Florentine of Florentines Bar and Grill said he will order the jackets within the next week.
Restaurant owners also said they are seeing positive results from a text messaging group created to prevent drunken patrons who are kicked out one bar from causing trouble at another one. Bar owners are considering developing an app.
“Even in its very early stage, the messaging between us has prevented over-serving across the district. It’s just good business to work hand in hand with the authorities and we’re excited to continue to do so.” said Jeremy Popoff, owner of The Slidebar Rock N Roll Café.
Popoff has lived in and around Fullerton for much of his life and remembers the area before restorations that took place decades ago. “They (the city) were absolutely begging businesses to come in to make Fullerton the destination it has become,” he said.
Police Chief Dan Hughes made an appearance, speaking to the significance of this project.
“Working side by side with the Downtown Restaurant Association will remain a priority as we’re all working towards the same goal – and that is a safer and thus more enjoyable experience for residents, visitors and our businesses” he said.
The next meeting is scheduled for June 6th, with private security working alongside officers set as a major topic on the agenda.
