To Close or Not to Close

The tragic shooting at a popular Southwest Nightclub has ignited calls from residents and local stakeholders for the permanent closure of H2O. Chief Lanier has announced a temporary closure of the club, which I believe is the correct action. Revelers need to see that their behavior has consequences, and a temporary closure sends that message.



I must say, however, that I am still unsure about permanently shutting down the establishment due to this incident. H2O screens and searches patrons before they enter, keeping the club safe inside. It's what happens outside that is the problem. Too much alcohol, combined with ready access to weapons, is a disastrous combination. That's we saw that over the weekend when the assailant went to his car to get a gun and then shot the victim in the head.


I see the event as an issue of enforcement. Adequate police/security presence both inside and outside the club can act as a preventative measure, likely reducing unlawful incidents. Kneejerk reactions are rarely the best solution. The calls to close H2O are understandable, but may just push the problem somewhere else instead of actually preventing violence. Instead of permanently forcing the closure of H2O, let's put the onus on MPD to ensure that the surrounding area is safe and require H2O to increse its own efforts to ensure a safe and fun evening for both customers and local residents.