Hammond City Council considers proposed gas station curfew, mayor cites safety concerns

HAMMOND, Ind. - The city of Hammond is considering a proposed ordinance that would require gas stations to close overnight.

If the ordinance passes, it would have an impact on 37 gas stations located within Hammond. These gas stations would be required to close their operations between midnight and 5 a.m. Some gas stations in the city already close by midnight.

Mayor Thomas McDermott's support for the ordinance stems from a recent murder that occurred at a gas station after 2 a.m.

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"A lot of the crime taking place in our city happens after hours at gas stations. We've talked about this for a number of years," McDermott said. "It was time to put my foot down and say this is enough."

Some City Council members called for more data before making a final decision.

"Before agreeing to this, we need more data even from the gas stations of what instances are happening between 12 and 5 a.m.," said Katrina Alexander.

Council members also wanted clarification on what will happen to guarantee that gas station facilities are safe when closed, which gas stations have armed security, and how many employees would lose their jobs if the ordinance is put in place.

Gas stations located along the interstate and toll roads will have the option to submit a petition to be exempted from the curfew and remain open past midnight.

The Hammond City Council will re-convene on the issue July 20th.