I.C.’s 21-only ordinance is clearly working

Recently compiled data by Iowa City police show a decrease in violent, life-threatening crimes (rape and assault) and a decrease in public intoxication in our downtown area since adoption of the 21-only ordinance in June.

And a Sept. 27 Daily Iowan article highlighted a significant decrease in weekend ambulance calls downtown and emergency room visits by 19- and 20-year-olds so far this semester.

This decrease in criminal activity and drunken behavior has allowed police to increase the number of officers patrolling nearby neighborhoods during weekend nights. These nearby neighborhoods have been requesting this type of service for many years, but it couldn't happen because of the concentration of out-of-control behavior downtown.

So let's see. A decrease in violent and life-threatening behavior. Check. A decrease in underage drinking and public intoxication. Check. The end of Iowa City as a destination point for out-of-town, underage party goers. Check. An increase in police presence in nearby neighborhoods. Check. Who could argue with these benefits?

Oh, yeah. The bar owners raking in money by the truckload who claim they're only in it as a public service to provide entertainment and a safe place for the kids to have fun.

Give me a break.

I support our 21-only ordinance because it is doing exactly what it was intended to do. It works, so let's keep it that way. Vote “no” on repealing it on Nov. 2.

Norm Cate

Iowa City