HomeMy WebLinkAbout1985-05-21; City Council; 7963-2; 120 day report Woolworth Video ArcadeCIT OF CARLSBAD — AGEND. BILL
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WOOEWDRTH VIDEO ARCADE
OJP-234 - WOOEWDRTH
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RECOMMENDED ACTION:
It is recommended that the City Council direct the Attorney's Office to prepare
documents extending Conditional Use Permit (CUP-234) for 90 days with additional
conditions as recommended by the Police Chief. It is also recommended that
Council direct staff to return on August 20, 1985, with a report analyzing
arcade operation during the summer vacation period.
ITEM EXPLANATION
This item was first heard by the City Council on appeal in November of last
year. The Planning Commission had revoked the arcade's conditional use permit
based on objections from surrounding store owners and the Carlsbad Police
Department. The objections indicated that the arcade created an attractive
nuisance for teenagers on summer vacation and that these teenagers were annoying
mall customers.
The Council voted to extend the conditional use permit for an additional 120
days with additional conditions (Council Resolution No. 7835, attached) that the
applicant keep additional security personnel and close the arcade during the
month of December. They also directed staff to return in 120 days with a report
describing arcade activity during that period.
In general, the situation around the arcade has improved. The police chief
(report attached) has indicated that due to better security there has been less
loitering and less incidents at the arcade entrance where most of the previous
problems had occurred. There have still been some problems. Nfelifua Security,
hired by the applicant, reported 12 incidents during the first 3 months of 1985.
The applicant indicates that this parallels the number of incidents at other
locations throughout the mall (please see security report and census section of
packet submitted by applicant and attached).
Based on the police department's indication that the situation has improved
staff would recommend that the conditional use permit be extended for 90 days.
Staff would also recommend that the three additional conditions suggested by the
Police Chief be added to the conditional use permit for the summer rtonths.
These are as follows:
1) Have an "on-site" security guard stationed within the arcade during all
hours of operation during the summer months.
2) Close the arcade for a minimum of four (4) hours upon the request of the
police department if a disturbance occurs in or adjacent to the arcade that
is of a magnitude that the responding officer(s) feel jeopardize the safety
of the mall customers.
3) School age youths shall be excluded from use of the arcade during normal
school hours until summer break is over.
Page 2 of Agenda Bill No. 79
Condition number 3 suggested by the police department has excellent intent but
may be hard to enforce because it may be difficult to determine vino should be in
school due to flexible school hours and open campuses.
Staff would not recommend a long-term extension because the summer months are
critical and have not been analyzed under present security conditions. Staff
feels that a 90 day extenstion will allow the Council to better analyze the
future operation of the facility.
For further background information please see the original staff report to the
Planning Commission dated October 24, 1984.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
No environmental review is required of this project.
FISCAL IMPACT
No direct fiscal impact would result from the revocation or extension of this
conditional use permit.
EXHIBITS
1. Location Map
2. City Council Resolution No. 7835
3. Report from Police Chief
4. Applicant Submittal dated, May 8, 1985 (Thomas Wood)
5. PC Staff Report dated October 24, 1984
LOCATION MAP
HWY 78
PLAZA CAMJNO REAL
MARROW ROAD
mr~
o>
33m
SITE
WOOLWORTHS
F.W. WOOLWORTHS CUP-234
RESOLUTION NO. 7835
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OP THE CITY OF
CARLSBAD, CALIFORNIA GRANTING AN APPEAL OF A
PLANNING COMMISSION DECISION REVOKING A CONDITIONAL
3 USE PERMIT TO CONDUCT A VIDEO ARCADE BUSINESS
CUP-234 - WOOLWORTH AND CONTINUING SAID PERMIT IN
A EFFECT SUBJECT TO ADDITIONAL CONDITIONS.
CUP-234 - WOOLWORTH. _
5 WHEREAS, the Planning Commission on September 14, 1983
6 by the adoption of Planning Commission Resolution No. 2176
7 approved a conditional use permit (CUP-234 - Woolworth) to allow
8 the conversion of an existing cafeteria into a video arcade on
9 property generally located on the lower level of Plaza Camino
10 Real (Woolworth 's store) subject to certain conditions. The
resolution, marked Exhibit "A" is attached hereto and made a part
12 of this resolution; and
13 WHEREAS, condition number 4 of Resolution No. 2176
14 provided for an annual review of the permit to determine whether
15 or not the use was having a significant detrimental impact on the
16 surrounding businesses; and
17 WHEREAS, in response to complaints from the surrounding
18 businesses the Planning Commission did, on October 24, 1984, hold
19 a duly noticed public hearing to consider the matter; and
20 WHEREAS, the Planning Commission on said date adopted
21 Resolution No. 2376 revoking the conditional use permit based on
22 a finding that the arcade business was having a significant
23 detrimental effect on surrounding business; and
24 WHEREAS, pursuant to a timely appeal filed by the
25 permittee, Woolworth 's, the City Council did, on November 20,
26 1984, hold a duly noticed public hearing to consider said appeal
27 at which the Council took testimony from all persons desiring to
28 be heard.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of
the City of Carlsbad, California as follows:
2 1. That the above recitations are true and correct.
2. That based on the record before the Planning
4 i Commission and the evidence presented at the public hearing, the
5 City Council has determined to grant the appeal and to allow the
6 |video arcade business at the Woolworth store to continue pursuant
7 to Conditional Use Permit - 234 as originally approved by
8 Planning Commission Resolution No. 2176 and subject to the
9 appellant's compliance with the additional conditions of approval
10
FINDINGS:
contained in this resolution for the following reasons:
11
12 1. There was substantial evidence introduced at the hearing
13
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15
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19
20
21
25
26
27
28
permit.
16"
that the video arcade business as presently configured and
operated has caused problems in the mall both the
surrounding businesses and the shoppers which could be
determined to constitute a significant detrimental effect on
the surrounding businesses and justify revocation of the
2. However, at the hearing the appellant suggested a series of
additional conditions to be imposed on the operation which
they maintained would minimize the problem while allowing
the business to continue in operation.
3. The City Council has determined to grant the appeal and amend
the conditional use permit to add these conditions and to
provide for a 120 day trial period at the conclusion of which
the City Council will again review the matter to determine if
the problem has been solved by the additional conditions and
whether or not any additional action on the part of the City
22 including the possible revocation of the permit will be
required.
23 3. Conditional Use Permit - 234 - Woolworth's, as
24 approved by Planning Commission Resolution No. 2176, shall
continue in effect subject to all of the terms and conditions of
said resolution and to the following additional conditions:
2.
A
15
T7
CONDITIONS ;
1 . The video arcade will be closed for the month of December
1984 but may reopen on January 2, 1985.I
2. The F. W. Woolworth company will provide private security for
the arcade during the hours it is open when school is not in
session.
3. The management of Woolworth 's and the operators of the arcade
will provide that the private security will call the Carlsbad
Police Department upon the observance of any criminal
activity in the vicinity of the arcade and will cooperate in
making citizens arrests, signing complaints, or testifying in
court as a witness.
8 4. If, in the judgment of the Police Department, a problem does
exist at any particular time in connection with the arcade
they shall have authority to close the arcade for a minimum
of two hours .
5. The operators of the arcade will make a monthly security
report to the Chief of Police.
12 6. The operators of the arcade will enforce a strict "shoes and
shirts" rule.
7. When the video arcade reopens it shall operate on a trial
basis for a period of 120 days. At the conclusion of that
period the City Council shall again review the conditional
use permit to determine whether or not the problems
identified at the public hearing have been solved by the
additional conditions of approval. Council may at that time
again review the permit and make any determinations as
they consider necessary under condition number 4 of
Resolution No. 2176 including the imposition of additional
conditions or the revocation of the permit if the City
Council finds that is necessary in the public interest.
PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the
Carlsbad City Council, held on the 4th day of December
1984 by the following vote, to wit:
~~ AYES: Council Members Casler, Lewis and Chick
NOES: Council Members Kulchin and Pettine
ABSENT: None
19
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23
24
25
26
27
28 ar.RTHa L. RAUTEN
ATTEST:
MARY H. //CASLER, Mayor
/
'ENKRANZ, City CJerk
G,
MAY 9, 1985
TO: CITY MANAGER
FROM: Police Chief
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT 234 - F.W. WOOLWORTH 120 DAY REVIEW
RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the review period be extended for an additional 90 days
with the listed conditions prior to final approval of the CUP 234.
1. Have an "on site" security guard stationed within the arcade
during all hours of operation during the summer months.
2. Exclude school aged youths from the use of the arcade during
normal school hours until summer break begins.
3. Close the arcade for a minimum of four (4) hours upon the request
of the police department if a disturbance occurs in or adjacent
to the arcade that is of a magnitude that the responding officer(s)
feel jeopardize the safety of the mall customers.
DISCUSSION
On November 20, 1984, the City Council heard the appeal of the Planning Commission's
denial of CUP 234 for the Fun Center at F.W. Woolworth. The City Council approved
the CUP with a trial period of 120 days. The trial period was approved with
conditions proposed by Woolworth and agreed to by the City Council and Police
Chief. The Chief was directed to report the status of the problems expressed
and make recommendations for final consideration in 120 days.
The representatives of Woolworth and the Chief worked out operating, security
and reporting procedures. Contact with mall officials was accomplished and
agreement for cooperation acquired.
Officer Galloway, business liaison officer, was assigned the responsibility
to observe and verify reporting of all incidents, review actions by all parties
involved and evaluate changes in circumstances. The police department received
daily reports of activities at the Fun Center by the security service of the
arcade, G.M. Molifua Security. At the same time weekly reports of mall activity
were received from May Company mall security highlighting Fun Center area problems.
The results have indicated that the problematic activity in and around the Fun
Center has been adequately handled by the security services of the the mall and
the arcade. The administration of the mall has indicated that conditions around
the arcade has improved. Secondly, there appears to be less hostile and more
coexistence oriented attitudes by the "punker" type individuals.
The problem of the trial period is that the period reviewed is generally con-
sidered the least problematic period. To truly test the stability of the
improvement would take at least 90 additional days to see if the period that
youngsters are out of school (June, July and August) has any major effect
on the conditions now existing.
The current conditions lead department staff to believe that the Fun Center can
co-exist in the mall if proper safe guards and conditions are maintained. It
is of concern that the high volume period during the summer has not been part
of the review prior to the final determination.
ALTERNATIVES
The alternatives considered were:
1. Approve CUP with conditions.
2. Approve CUP for 90 additional days with conditions prior
to final determination.
3. Approve CUP with conditions of operation directing Chief of Police
to report to Council the status prior to next renewal date.
EXHIBITS
1. Letter from Tom Woods, Attorney, dated December 4, 1984
2. Letter of conditions dated December 6, 1984
3. Letter of hours of security dated December 12, 1984
4. Report by Officer Galloway dated April 27, 1985
Attachments
VDJ:db
R. THOMAS WOOD
ATTORNEY AT LAW
aSSO PIO P'CO DR'VE SUITE H
P. O. BOX <S<*5
CAKLSBAD, CALIFORNIA B2OO8-O26O
TELEPHONE 16,9! 729-, 59
December 4, 1984
Mary Casler
Mayor
1200 Elm Avenue
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Anne Kulchin
City Councilor
1200 Elm Avenue
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Claude Lewis
City Councilor
1200 Elm Avenue
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Richard Chick
City Councilor
1200 Elm Avenue
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Mark Pettine
City Councilor
1200 Elm Avenue
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Re: Woolworth's Conditional Use Permit #234
Dear Mayor and City Councilors:
After reviewing the conditions to be added to the above-
referenced Conditional Use Permit, I felt that a comment regard-
ing condition no. 2 was appropriate.
Because different schools and different students are
released at different times, I felt a little uncertain as to what
the term "when school is not in session" would be interpreted to
mean. After discussing it with City Attorney Biondo and Police
Chief Jimno, I feel it best that the language remain as is.
However, I have asked the Police Chief to confer with Officer
Galloway, the mall liaison officer, and to provide me with his
opinion as to the exact hours that we should have private secur-
ity on the premises. Our intention is to comply with the Chief's
request with regard to said hours.
Mary Casler
Anne Kulchin
Claude Lewis
Richard Chick
Hark Pettine
December 4, 1984
Page Two
In addition, I have asked Chief Jimno to provide me with the
specifics as to what he will require in the monthly report des-
cribed in condition no. 5.
I sincerely believe that the implementation of the new
conditions, in conjunction with cooperation from the mall secur-
ity, will continue alleviate the problems of the past.
Yours truly,
R. THOMAS WOOD
RTW/mlk
cc: Vincent F. Biondo, City Attorney
Vincent Jimno, Chief of Police
1200 ELM AVENUE • 3^ i • TELEPHONE
CARLSBAD, CA 92008-1989 m&&JFM (619)438-5511
Office of the Chief of Police
Citp of Cartebab
December 6, 1984
R. Thomas Wood
Attorney At Law
P.O. Box 1545
Carlsbad, California 92008-0206
Dear Tom:
This correspondence is in response to our conversation and your request of
last week. I agree with you that it would be helpful for me to indicate
what it is that I would need in order to get a clear idea of the conditions
at and around the arcade.
In order to assist you in providing that information, I would like your
security people to provide me with the following information on a weekly
basis:
1. How many security officers work each day.
2. Hours of each security officer each day, i.e. one officer,
11:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M.; one officer, 1:00 P.M. to 7:00 P.M.
3. The number of incidents inside the arcade which required
action by the security officers.
4. The number of incidents outside the arcade that occurred in the
immediate area, also known as the common area, or adjacent stores.
5. The types of incidents occurring, i.e. shopper harrassment, dis-
orderly conduct, loitering, malicious mischief or other similar
offenses.
6. Any suspected alcohol or drug-related activities.
7. Any other activities previously described at City Council or
City Planning Commission meetings as unacceptable or inappropriate.
8. The number of times arcade or arcade security personnel call the
mall security regarding problems.
9. The number of times the mall security contacts arcade or arcade
security personnel regarding problems.
These items would greatly help me in analyzing the situation. It would also
help if the security personnel would include a short disposition of each
incident. Example: Carlsbad police handled - or - subject talked to by
security officer and released - or - mall security called and referred to them.
Tom, I'm looking for the best way to really look at the activity level in
the area and analyzing it to see if the mitigating conditions placed upon
the arcade have had a significant affect. Your cooperation, understanding
and assistance is greatly appreciated.
Sincej^ly,
Vincent . Ji.jnno
Chief
VDJ:ng
1200 ELM AVENUE
CARLSBAD, CA 92008-1989
Office of the Chief of Police
TELEPHONE
!6l9i 438-5511
Cttp of Cartebab
December 13, 1984
R. Thomas Wood
Attorney At Law
P.O. Box 1545
Carlsbad, California 92008-0206
RE: VIDEO ARCADE - PLAZA CAMINO REAL
Dear Tom:
Thank you for your patience in this matter. Here is the schedule for security
coverage for the arcade that I am requesting.
Monday through Friday
Saturday
Sundav
12 Noon to 8 PM
10 AM to 6 PM
11 AM to 5 PM
*At least one local school dismisses at 11:30 AM
During the Easter school break (April 1 through 5, 1985), the arcade should
maintain a security officer for the entire period the establishment is opened.
If you wish to discuss the matter further, please feel free to contact me.
Your continued cooperation is truly appreciated.
Sincerely,
Vincent D. Jimno
Chief of Police
VDJ:db
13
MEMORANDUM
TO: CHIEF V. JIMNO DATE: APRIL 27, 1985
FROM: OFFICER R. GALLOWAY
SUBJECT: ACTIVITY LEVEL OF COMPLAINTS AT THE MALL "FUN CENTER"
THIS MEMORANDUM WILL ADDRESS THE REPORTED PROBLEMS AND DIS-
TURBANCES THAT OCCURRED IN AND AROUND THE PLAZA CAMINO REAL
"FUN CENTER" FROM JANUARY 1, 1985 UNTIL APRIL 10, 1985.
A REVIEW OF THE CARLSBAD POLICE DEPARTMENT PATROL LOGS AND
CRIME REPORTS, THE PLAZA CAMINO REAL SECURITY WEEKLY CRIME
REPORTS, AND THE DAILY SECURITY REPORTS FROM THE MOLIFUA SECURITY
COMPANY (WHICH PROVIDES AN ON SITE SECURITY GUARD INSIDE THE
ARCADE DURING PEAK BUSINESS HOURS), REVEALS THAT THE ACTIVITY
LEVEL REQUIRING POLICE OR SECURITY OFFICER INVOLVEMEMT IN THE
ARCADE AREA IS OCCURRING AT A MODERATE AND MANAGEABLE LEVEL.
DURING THE PAST FOURTEEN WEEKS, MOLIFUA SECURITY REPORTED TWELVE
INCIDENTS REQUIRING ACTION BY THEIR SECURITY GUARDS. THESE
INCIDENTS RANGED FROM FIGHTS AND USE OF PROFANITY TO FIRST AID
REQUESTS. MALL SECURITY REPORTED FORTY INCIDENTS/DISTURBANCES
OCCURRING IN THE ADJACENT COMMON AREA NEAR THE ARCADE. THESE
INCIDENTS RANGED FROM LOITERINGrATO/FIGHTS TO -REPORTED THEFTS
OCCURRING IN THE AREA. THE CARLSBAD POLICE WERE CALLED TO THE
* . -
AREA THREE TIMES DURING THIS PERIOD, ONCE BECAUSE OF A FIGHT THAT
HAD OCCURRED IN THE C.OMMON AREA OF THE MALL, ONCE TO ARREST A
DRUNK JUVENILE, AND ONCE TO CHECK ON A SUSPICIOUS PERSON LINGERING
IN THE AREA OUTSIDE OF THE ARCADE. THESE THREE CALLS FOR SERVICE
BY THE POLICE NEAR THE ARCADE WERE IN ADDITION TO THE "NORMAL"
MALL CALLS INVOLVING THEFTS, ROBBERIES, BURGLARIES, KIDNAPPINGS,
AUTO THEFTS, BATTERIES, BUSINESS ALARMS, ALCOHOL VIOLATIONS, TRUANCY,
RECOVERED RUNAWAY JUVENILES, TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS, LOST CARS AND LOST
CHILDREN, FIRST AID REQUESTS, WARRENT ARRESTS, FORGERY, AND VEHICLE
"LOCK OUTS" WHICH WERE REPORTED THROUGHOUT ALL AREAS OF THE CENTER.
IT APPEARS THAT THE ACTIVITY OCCURRING IN AND AROUND THE ARCADE IS
BEING ADEQUATELY HANDLED BY THE SECURITY GUARDS AND THEY DO NOT
REQUIRE POLICE ASSISTANCE IN MOST INSTANCES. THERE HAS BEEN AN
INCREASE OF PROBLEMS INVOLVING THE GATHERING AND THE LIOTERING
OF GROUPS OF JUVENILES IN THE AREA AROUND CARL'S JR. RESTAURANT AND
OTHER LOCATIONS UPON THE MALL PROPERTY. BUT AGAIN, IN MOST CASES,
THE MALL SECURITY STAFF IS ABLE TO BREAK UP THESE GROUPS AND MOVE
ALONG THOSE WHO LOITER AND DISRUPT THE NORMAL SHOPPING CLIMATE.
PLAZA CAMINO REAL ADMINISTRATORS, THE SECURITY MANAGER, AND SOME
MALL MERCHANTS HAVE EXPRESSED TO ME THEIR FEELINGS THAT THE ARCADE
OCCURREC
AND THE SURROUNDING AREA IS GREATLY IMPROVED FROM THE PROBLEMS THAT
THERE DURING THE PAST SUMMER. THE REPORTED REDUCTION OF COMPLAINTS
AND ACTIVITY I BELIEVE CAN BE ATTRIBUTED TO THE ON SITE SECURITY
GUARD WITHIN THE ARCADE, AN INCREASE OF SECURITY GUARDS BY THE MALL
SECURITY STAFF, AND BY A HIGHER VISIBILITY OF CARLSBAD POLICE OFFICERS
IN AND AROUND THE MALL AREA. THERE ALSO"' SEEMS TO BE A CHANGE IN THE
ATTITUDE OF SOME OF THE "PUNKERS" FROM VIOLENT, HOSTILE TENDENCIES
TO AN ATTITUDE OF COEXISTENCE WITH OTHER MALL USERS AND BEHAVIOR
THAT IS MORE TOLERABLE.
I FEEL THAT THE RECENT "TEST" PERIOD HAS SHOWN A HUGH REDUCTION
IN THE PROBLEMS THAT WERE ATTRIBUTED TO THE ARCADE, BUT I FEEL
THAT THE REAL "TEST" PERIOD IS APPROACHING US AND THAT THE SUMMER
MONTHS WILL GIVE A MORE ACCURATE READING ON HOW THE ARCADE "PROBLEM"
IS PROGRESSING. LAST YEAR THE VAST MAJORITY OF THE SERIOUS INCIDENTS
OCCURRED DURING THE SUMMER MONTHS, (AUGUST IN PARTICUALLY), AND I
DO NOT FEEL THAT THE CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT (CUP) SHOULD BE EXTENDED
TO THE ARCADE ON A PERMENANT BASIS UNTIL THE SAME TIME PERIOD CAN
BE EXAMINED THIS YEAR. DURING THE TIME THE ARCADE WAS CLOSED IN
DECEMBER OF 1934, COMPLAINTS INVOLVING "PUNKERS" WERE ALMOST NON-
EXISTENT. THIS CLOSURE WAS TO PROTECT THE CHRISTMAS SHOPPING SEASON,
AND SINCE THE LATE AUGUST AND EARLY SEPTEMBER MONTHS ARE THE "BACK
TO SCHOOL" SEASON AND ACCORDING TO SOME MERCHANTS THEIR SECOND MOST
BUSY TIME OF THE YEAR, IT IS POSSIBLE THAT A DRASTIC INCREASE IN
COMPLAINTS/DISTURBANCES ORIGINATING FROM THE ARCADE COULD AGAIN
WARRANT IT'S CLOSURE.
IN REGARDS TO THE ISSURANCE OF THE "CUP" FOR THE ARCADE, I RECOM-
MEND THE FOLLOWING:
EXTEND THE "CUP" TO THE ARCADE ON A TEMPORARY BASIS FOR AN
ADDITIONAL NINTY (90) DAYS, PROVIDED THEY,
1.) HAVE AN ON SITE SECURITY GUARD STATIONED WITHIN THE
ARCADE DURING ALL HOURS OF OPERATION DURING THE SUMMER
MONTHS. -
2.) EXCLUDE SCHOOL AGED YOUTHS FROM THE USE OF THE ARCADE
DURING NORMAL SCHOOL HOURS UNTIL SUMMER BREAK BEGINS"
3.) WILL CLOSE THE ARCADE FOR A MINIMUM OF FOUR (4) HOURS
UPON THE REQUEST OF THE POLICE DEPARTMRNT IF A DIS-
TURBANCE OCCURS IN OR ADACENT TO THE ARCADE THAT IS OF
SUCH MAGITUDE THAT THE RESPONDING POLICE OFFICER FEELS
JEAPODIZES THE IMMEDIATE SAFETY OF THE MALL CUSTOMERS.
RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED,
R.W. GALLOWAY 5022
/7
MEMORANDUM
TO: CHIEF V. JIMNO DATE: APRIL 27, 1985
FROM: OFFICER R. GALLOWAY
SUBJECT: ACTIVITY LEVEL OF COMPLAINTS AT THE MALL "FUN CENTER"
THIS MEMORANDUM WILL ADDRESS THE REPORTED PROBLEMS AND DIS-
TURBANCES THAT OCCURRED IN AND AROUND THE PLAZA CAMINO REAL
"FUN CENTER" FROM JANUARY 1, 1985 UNTIL APRIL 10, 1985.
A REVIEW OF THE CARLSBAD POLICE DEPARTMENT PATROL LOGS AND
CRIME REPORTS, THE PLAZA CAMINO REAL SECURITY WEEKLY CRIME
REPORTS, AND THE DAILY SECURITY REPORTS FROM THE MOLIFUA SECURITY
COMPANY (WHICH PROVIDES AN ON SITE SECURITY GUARD INSIDE THE
ARCADE DURING PEAK BUSINESS HOURS), REVEALS THAT THE ACTIVITY
LEVEL REQUIRING POLICE OR SECURITY OFFICER INVOLVEMEMT IN THE
ARCADE AREA IS OCCURRING AT A MODERATE AND MANAGEABLE LEVEL.
DURING THE PAST FOURTEEN WEEKS, MOLIFUA SECURITY REPORTED TWELVE
INCIDENTS REQUIRING ACTION BY THEIR SECURITY GUARDS. THESE
INCIDENTS RANGED FROM FIGHTS AND USE OF PROFANITY TO FIRST AID
REQUESTS. MALL SECURITY REPORTED FORTY INCIDENTS/DISTURBANCES
OCCURRING IN THE ADJACENT COMMON AREA NEAR THE ARCADE. THESE
INCIDENTS RANGED FROM LOITERING-AR& FIGHTS TO -REPORTED THEFTS
•pCCURRING IN THE AREA. THE CARLSBAD POLICE WERE CALLED TO THE
»•
AREA THREE TIMES DURING THIS PERIOD, ONCE BECAUSE OF A FIGHT THAT
HAD OCCURRED IN THE C.OMMON AREA OF THE MALL, ONCE TO ARREST A
DRUNK JUVENILE, AND ONCE TO CHECK ON A SUSPICIOUS PERSON LINGERING
IN THE AREA OUTSIDE OF THE ARCADE. THESE THREE CALLS FOR SERVICE
\r
BY THE POLICE NEAR THE ARCADE WERE IN ADDITION TO THE "NORMAL"
MALL CALLS INVOLVING THEFTS, ROBBERIES, BURGLARIES, KIDNAPPINGS,
AUTO THEFTS, BATTERIES, BUSINESS ALARMS, ALCOHOL VIOLATIONS, TRUANCY,
RECOVERED RUNAWAY JUVENILES, TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS, LOST CARS AND LOST
CHILDREN, FIRST AID REQUESTS, WARRENT ARRESTS, FORGERY, AND VEHICLE
"LOCK OUTS" WHICH WERE REPORTED THROUGHOUT ALL AREAS OF THE CENTER.
IT APPEARS THAT THE ACTIVITY OCCURRING IN AND AROUND THE ARCADE IS
BEING ADEQUATELY HANDLED BY THE SECURITY GUARDS AND THEY DO NOT
REQUIRE POLICE ASSISTANCE IN MOST INSTANCES. THERE HAS BEEN AN
INCREASE OF PROBLEMS INVOLVING THE GATHERING AND THE LIOTERING
OF GROUPS OF JUVENILES IN THE AREA AROUND CARL'S JR. RESTAURANT AND
OTHER LOCATIONS UPON THE MALL PROPERTY. BUT AGAIN, IN MOST CASES,
THE MALL SECURITY STAFF IS ABLE TO BREAK UP THESE GROUPS AND MOVE
ALONG THOSE WHO LOITER AND DISRUPT THE NORMAL SHOPPING CLIMATE.
PLAZA CAMINO REAL ADMINISTRATORS, THE SECURITY MANAGER, AND SOME
MALL MERCHANTS HAVE EXPRESSED TO ME THEIR FEELINGS THAT THE ARCADE
OCCURRED
AND THE SURROUNDING AREA IS GREATLY IMPROVED FROM THE PROBLEMS THAT
THERE DURING THE PAST SUMMER. THE REPORTED REDUCTION OF COMPLAINTS
AND ACTIVITY I BELIEVE CAN BE ATTRIBUTED TO THE ON SITE SECURITY
GUARD WITHIN THE ARCADE, AN INCREASE OF SECURITY GUARDS BY THE MALL
SECURITY STAFF, AND BY A HIGHER VISIBILITY OF CARLSBAD POLICE OFFICERS
IN AND AROUND THE MALL AREA. THERE ALSO SEEMS TO BE A CHANGE IN THE
ATTITUDE OF SOME OF THE "PUNKERS" FROM VIOLENT, HOSTILE TENDENCIES
TO AN ATTITUDE OF COEXISTENCE WITH OTHER MALL USERS AND BEHAVIOR
THAT IS MORE TOLERABLE.
I FEEL THAT THE RECENT "TEST" PERIOD HAS SHOWN A HUGH REDUCTION
IN THE PROBLEMS THAT WERE ATTRIBUTED TO THE ARCADE, BUT I FEEL
THAT THE REAL "TEST" PERIOD IS APPROACHING US AND THAT THE SUMMER
MONTHS WILL GIVE A MORE ACCURATE READING ON HOW THE ARCADE "PROBLEM"
IS PROGRESSING. LAST YEAR THE VAST MAJORITY OF THE SERIOUS INCIDENTS
OCCURRED DURING THE SUMMER MONTHS, (AUGUST IN PARTICUALLY), AND I
DO NOT FEEL THAT THE CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT (CUP) SHOULD BE EXTENDED
TO THE ARCADE ON A PERMENANT BASIS UNTIL THE SAME TIME PERIOD CAN
BE EXAMINED THIS YEAR. DURING THE TIME THE ARCADE WAS CLOSED IN
DECEMBER OF 1934, COMPLAINTS INVOLVING "PUNKERS".WERE ALMOST NON-
EXISTENT. THIS CLOSURE WAS TO PROTECT THE CHRISTMAS SHOPPING SEASON,
AND SINCE THE LATE AUGUST AND EARLY SEPTEMBER MONTHS ARE THE "BACK
TO SCHOOL" SEASON AND ACCORDING TO SOME MERCHANTS THEIR SECOND MOST
BUSY TIME OF THE YEAR, IT IS POSSIBLE THAT A DRASTIC INCREASE IN
COMPLAINTS/DISTURBANCES ORIGINATING FROM THE ARCADE COULD AGAIN
WARRANT IT'S CLOSURE.
IN REGARDS TO THE ISSURANCE OF THE "CUP" FOR THE ARCADE, I RECOM-
MEND THE FOLLOWING:
EXTEND THE "CUP" TO THE ARCADE ON A TEMPORARY BASIS FOR AN
ADDITIONAL NINTY (90) DAYS, PROVIDED THEY,
1.) HAVE AN ON SITE SECURITY GUARD STATIONED WITHIN THE
ARCADE DURING ALL HOURS OF OPERATION DURING THE SUMMER
MONTHS.
2.) EXCLUDE SCHOOL AGED YOUTHS FROM THE USE OF THE ARCADE
DURING NORMAL SCHOOL HOURS UNTIL SUMMER BREAK BEG/INS.;
2.0
3.) WILL CLOSE THE ARCADE FOR A MINIMUM OF FOUR (4) HOURS
UPON THE REQUEST OF THE POLICE DEPARTMRNT IF A DIS-
TURBANCE OCCURS IN OR ADACENT TO THE ARCADE THAT IS OF
SUCH MAGITUDE THAT THE RESPONDING POLICE OFFICER FEELS
JEAPODIZES THE IMMEDIATE SAFETY OF THE MALL CUSTOMERS.
RESPECTFULLY SUBMITTED,
-V1 ./ /'•? -%.<+ft-'*,«- <T 77\ I 'U-- , ..."•.•--'^-v--1-"1^/ -J>- L. L
R.W. GALLOWAY 5022
R. THOMAS WOOD
ATTORNEY AT LAW
2B5O PIO PICO DRIVE, SUITE H
P. O. BOX 1545
CARLSBAD, CALIFORNIA DSOO8-1OS1
TELEPHONE 1619) 7E9-II59
May 8, 1985
Mike Holzmiller
Land Use Planning Director
1200 Elm Avenue
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Re: Woolworth's CUP - 234
Dear Mike:
Enclosed herewith is a package that I have prepared for
submission to the City Council for the hearing scheduled for May
21, 1985.
It is my understanding that you will make sufficient copies
of this package to include in the packets to the Mayor and the
City Council as well as to provide one to the Chief of Police.
Thank you for your consideration in this matter.
Yours truly,
R. THOMAS WOOD
RTW/mlk
Encls.
R. THOMAS WOOD
ATTORNEY AT LAW
2S5O PIO PICO DRIVE, SUITE H
P. O. BOX 1545
CAKLSBAD, CAJLIFOHNIA QSOO8-1521
TELEPHONE 1619) 7E9-II59
May 8, 1985
Mary Casler, Mayor
1200 Elm Avenue
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Anne Kulchin, City Councilor
1200 Elm Avenue
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Claude Lewis, City Councilor
1200 Elm Avenue
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Richard Chick, City Councilor
1200 Elm Avenue
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Mark Pettine, City Councilor
1200 Elm Avenue
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Re: Woolworth's CUP - 234
Dear Mayor Casler and City Councilors:
As you know, I represent F. W. Woolworth Company with regard to
the above-referenced Conditional Use Permit. The CUP is scheduled for
review on May 21, 1985. For your information, I enclose herewith the
following documents:
1. Article from APPAREL merchandising, September, 1983.
2. Article from Advertising Age, May 17, 1982.
3. Chart entitled "Student Power."
4. Article from Blade-Tribune, March 18, 1985.
5. Article entitled "Teenage Behavior in Shopping Centers."
6. Excerpts - Highlights of Enclosed Published Materials.
7. Recap of Security Reports at El Camino Real Fun Center for
the first quarter of 1985.
8.El Camino Real Plaza Mall census.
Mayor Casler and City Councilors
May 8, 1985
Page Two
9. Letter dated April 12, 1985 from Michael D. Pappas of
Docktor Pet Center.
10. Letter dated March 26, 1985 from Paul A. Vehar, Manager of
Boot World.
11. Letter dated March 25, 1985, signed by 15 merchants at Plaza
Camino Real.
BACKGROUND
As you know, on September 14, 1983 the original Conditional Use
Permit was granted allowing the operation of a video arcade on several
conditions.
As a result of a public hearing before the City Council on
November 20, 1984, seven additional conditions were added, including a
review in 120 days. The review is currently scheduled for May 21,
1985.
RECAP OF EVENTS SINCE NOVEMBER 20, 1984
In accordance with the request of Chief Jimno, Woolworth's
expanded the hours of Molifua Security to cover all hours that the
mall is open and school is not in session. Molifua Security is
present from Monday through Friday, 1:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., Saturday
from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 5:00 p.m.
Molifua has maintained and filed with the Carlsbad Police Department
daily security reports. A recap of said security reports for the
months of January through March are enclosed herewith. Reports from
April 1, 1985 through May 2, 1985 have also been provided, although
they are not summarized in the attachment. A review of the reports
for said period reveals that no "incidents" whatsoever occurred in the
vicinity of the arcade. It should be noted that this period of time
includes Easter week (April 1 through April 7) when the local schools
were not in session.
In addition, a census of the mall was maintained for 18 days from
December 12 through December 31, 1984 and for the third week of each
month from January through April, 1985. The results of said census
are enclosed herewith. The individuals taking the census were
instructed to walk from end to end of both levels of the common area
of the mall, counting people who appeared to be under 18 years of age
and not accompanied by an adult. They were also instructed to take
particular note as to congregation of young people. As can be seen
from the enclosed census, the daily average during the latter half of
December when the Fun Center was closed was approximately double that
of the other three months when the Fun Center was open.
Mayor Casler and City Councilors
May 8, 1985
Page Three
The undersigned has discussed this matter with both Chief Jimno
and Office Galloway. It is my understanding that they are satisfied
that the Woolworth's security measures together with the mall security
force has been sufficient to alleviate the problem that was previously
a subject of complaint. It is submitted that this alleviation is
underscored by virtue of the fact that 17 merchants in the mall have
signed letters on behalf of Woolworth's, several of whom had pre-
viously signed a petition asking that the Pun Center be closed.
CONCLUSION
The sum and substance of the enclosures herewith would seem to
indicate that/ whether the Fun Center is open or closed, young people
will be in the mall. A perusal of the merchants in the mall and the
merchandise and services offered reveals that approximately 110 of the
134 merchants, or 82% thereof, seek teenage business. As can be seen
from the enclosed articles and surveys, the Plaza Camino Real is not
unique among malls. The simple facts are that there will be teens in
the mall whether the Fun Center is closed or open; most of the mer-
chants in the mall will continue to attract teens to the mall whether
the Fun Center is open or closed; some of the teens will spend money
in the mall and some will simply use it as a social hang-out. It is
submitted that the solution is not to close legitimate businesses, but
to learn to deal with the phenomenon of teens in shopping centers.
It is respectfully requested that the City Council renew the
Conditional Use Permit as modified for a one-year period.
If any of you have any questions or require additional informa-
tion, please do not hesitate to contact the undersigned.
Yours truly,
*-"•* - l^l^l^^-^~^^7>
R. THOMAS WOOD
RTW/mlk
Encls.
1
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/•JUNIOR H/GH/-
Penney And Sears Pursue
Transitional Teens
3
1
Actively courting the 11-14-year-
old girl both Sears & Penney
are zeroing in on providing
sophisticated styles.
iris* wear re-
tailers agree
that there is a
distinct 11- to
14-year-old
customer
seeking fashion merchandise
today. This "woman's mind in
a girl's body' has been ac-
tively courted by department
and specialty stores for years,
but mass merchandisers have
generally steered clear of this
highly volatile segment of the
population.
Now both Sears and Pen-
ney have developed mini-de-
partments aimed at this tran-
sitionally sized shopper in the
girl's area. Sear's "Miss Teen-
age America" (MTA) pre-
sentation and Penney's Jr. Hi
niche have zeroed in on
providing sophisticated styles
in young jr. sizes.
The response has been
"very strong," according to
one Penney's department
manager who says before the
merchandise was featured at
the front of the girls' depart-
ment, the young jr. shopper
"only passed through the
store on her way to the mall."
Retailers say the early teen
girl is looking for two things
when she shops for clothes:
items that fit her developing
figure and the right label.
To make a special appeal
to the shopper, Penney's is
using a special size chart in
the display area listing bust,
waist, hips and height mea-
i
• wants to look older and
can't wait to shop in the
Juniors Department.
• is influenced by the
latest fads and styles.
• b«t her own money and
first on niTii
Penney's Profile Pinpoints Pre-Junlor Purchaser
Before opening the Jr.
Hi niche, J. C. Penney
market analysts made an
in-depth study of just who
the young junior shopper
is. Not only did they deter-
mine a special size range
targeted at the developing
figure of the 11- to 14-year
old, but they studied her
lifestyle and shopping
habits as well.
Their research found
the "Jr. Hi shopper to be a
jjrjwho:
• mlklli the buyingdeci-
JwKetfier sHe1 srtojps
"or with her mother.
• is very label conscious.
• is becoming interested
in boys.
much of her free
to mix'and match
her outfits.
Basically, the potential
young junior shopper no
longer thinks of herself as
a little girl.
Lack of names threatens Seers' credibility with shopper*.
surements. The chart makes
a clear statement of exactly
who the merchandise isaimed at.
Sears is using a similar size
chart that shows the compari-
son between young jr. and jr.
For back-to-school bothstores are featuring subdued
tartan skirts and Oxford clothbutton-down collar shirts.
But , as one observer notes,"Today, girls are very, very
brand name-oriented. They
want more than the right
styles, they want the right la-
bel."
A teenage shopper at an
MTA department at a Long
Island Sears $tOre said she
liked the look, but quicklyadded she wouldn't buy at
Sears because "how could 1
tell my '"ends that." Sears
may b«* Acuity overcom-ing its ro'ddle-of.the_road jm_
•g«- eve" 'h°u«h all mer-
chandise bears the MTA labelwith no mention
hito have hi ^
mix o'P"v«e l«bel andbranded merch,ndj
bc>|d wh.«£on.b,Kk »«
hang«* •**»» both private
label Fox and Hunt Club
shirts and items from Sasson,
Sergio Valente and Levi's.
Even though both chains
have given the category prime
locations along main aisles,
they are still located in the
children's area, a move other
retailers say might be off tar-
get. Mervyn's dmm-girls'.
Kip Garcia, for one, notes
that "young juniors don't
want to shop in the girls' de-
partment anymore, they want
to be in jrs."
Mervyn's merchandisers
are still not sure whether or
not there is, in fact, a transi-
tional customer who needs to
be addressed separately.
"We've extended our sizing in
girls to 16 and we are begin*
ning to develop a strong jr.
petite business," notes Gar-
cia. "And we feel this will
cover that early teen shop-
per."
At Penney's, though, there
is no question. Last year. Jr.
Hi departments generated
S36 million in sales for the
chain. A Penney's store man-
ager says the category is cur-
rently in the process of being
expanded. An
APPAREL mercrwndWna September 1963
I i CC«
Student Power
Even the grocers and drug stores in collegetowns benefit *""" Tf[\|dffn r"Tr^**^*g*>i'^ Nearly
half of all students buy pain relievers; 97 percent buy athletic shoes*.
(student purchasing in six months before survey, in perccM) Total Men Women
Toothpaste 94% 92% 95%
Shampoo 93 91 96
Deodorant 88 85 ' 92
Bath Soap 84 86 83
Hair Conditioner 63 45 81
Face Soap or Cleanser 57 40 74
Other Skin/Complexion Care Products 54 34 75
Cold, Sinus, or Allergy Remedies 48 43 53
Pain Relievers 46 :: 54
Shaving Cream 43 64 22
Mouthwash 30 27 34
Eyewash or Eyedrops 22 18 26
Electric Razor 6 9 2
Disposable Razors 57 59 55
Any Other Non-Disposable Razor 16 17 15
Men's Cologne or Aftershave — 37 —
Women's Cosmetics — — 80
Women's Perfume or Cologne — — 52
Athletic Shoes* 97 97 96
Laundry Soap 79 74 84
PantyHose — — 74
Batteries (For Flashlight, Recorder, etc.) 57 55 59
Contraceptives 19 17 21
TV averatt ntmfarr of pom of tMeuc Aoa nm4 u 3.
Sower The College Market Profile of Students u Consumers / 2. CASS Studmi AArrumj. Inc., kvoniw*. IL
'Mall rats' a growing phenomenon
TORRANCE (AP) — To many
businessmen, they're "mall rats."Ranging in age from 11 to 25, they
hang out in Southern California'sair-conditioned, sometimes lavishlydecorated shopping malls.
"Most of the mall rats have trou-ble," said 21-year-old Gabe Anderson,
a confirmed mall rat who eventuallylanded a 20-hour-a-week job at a shoestore in Torrance's Del Amo Fashion
Center, "They wouldn't be here ifthey didn't," added Anderson, a
homeless high school dropout anddrug user before he got the job."I come here when I have nothing
to do," said Ricky Lynn, 21. "I comehere to meet a lot of my friends, kill
some time, play video games and. meet new people."
One mall rat called malls theteen-agers' "meat market."
Many mall managers say mall ratshave become something of a phe-
nomenon over the last 10 years asenclosed shopping malls sprouted
across the Southern California land-
scape."We have a lot of juveniles," said
Charles Davis, general manager ofHawthorne Plaza. "It's a good place
for them to hang out and it's the thingto do these'days."
Most mall rats aren't any trouble,"but sometimes they get in a biggroup, get loud and disturb shoppers,
so we try to keep them moving," he
said.
"They're a pain," said Alfred Mar-
s'hall, manager of Mrs. Fields Cookies
in Del Amo. "They're always coming
and asking for change. It's bad for mybusiness."
"They'll sit for two hours sharingone Coke," said Ken Poole, generalmanager at Del Amo.,"But has that
really changed over the last 40years? In the old days, there was the
soda fountain, then it was the free-standing McDonald'!"
"There has always been a univer-sal gathering place," said Rex
Beaber, clinical psychologist at Uni-
versity of California-Los Angeles
Medical Center. "That gathering
place historically was the townsquare that disappeared in the 20thcentury. Then came malls at a time
when there is a tremendous need fora social hangout."
1
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3
i
oenavior in
shopping
centers
Martin B. Millison, D.S.W.
Intfrmtiontl
Council ol
Shopping
Canters
tf
I
• Table of Contents
§ 4 Foreword
_ 6 Adolescent Use of Centers —
I ' The Philadelphia Study
8 Attitudes of Adolescents
J 9 ICSC Study of Shopping Center Managers
* 11 Urban/Suburban Comparisons
12 Enclosed Centers vs. Open Centers
I 13 Misbehavior
13 Security1
}
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16 Special Programs and Services
Offered by Centers
17 'Problem' Centers
19 Guidelines for Management
J 19 Dealing With Teens
1 21 Conclusions
22 Appendix - Sample Questionnaires
331
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Adolescent Use of Centers — The Philadelphia Study
Why are teenagers attracted to shopping cen-
ters and what motivates their behavior at
centers? To get the answers, the author ques-
tioned 107 teenagers at four malls in the
Philadelphia area1 about their use of shopping
centers. By far the largest percentage (49.5%)
listed "shopping" as their reason for coming to
centers. A large percentage (39.4%) also came
either to "look around" or because there was
"nothing else to do." Even some of those who
replied that they came to shop viewed shopping as
a social activity which also enabled them to be
with their friends, to look around and to_socialize.
(See Table 1.)
The survey also determined that teenagers who
lived under five miles from the center tended to
spend less time shopping and more time hanging
around than did teens who traveled a greater dis-
tance to be at the mall.
It is apparent, as evidenced by these response*.
that a^ntaiot. problem facing adolescents .is Jhe
TQf laTg'e'-s'c'ale' &oCial gatherings. There are few
place's''where the field for selecting friends.^og-
portunities for peer group interaction and meeting
companions of the opposite sex is as large and
diversified as the shopping center.. This is partic-
]. Uortt* B Milliton. "Shupptrtf CfiUfr Siiom. TV Eflrcn of frtr Normi. Srructttrr. and Sffurin off Adtdnct** Brkavm «j fegittaat 5fappmf CnUfrl."
Unptiblnhrtf rcpor Tor thr Uiuvmii} of Penas vlvinii School of Social Wori. * Afar. 19741 A top* ofitir qtttsmmnairt u M Ik
TABLE 1 — Why Do You Come to the Shopping Center?
Reason
Nothing to do
To shop
To work
To meet people
To look around
Percentage
19
53
4
8
23
(17.7%)
(49.5%)
(3.7%)
(7.5%)
(21.5%)
Responses
Time Spent at the Shopping Center
How Do You
Spend Your Timei
How Do Friends
Spend Their June*
Shopping
Hanging around
Talking with friends
Meeting new friends
Making drug contacts
•Working
Other
49
26
5
5
3
2
7
(50.5%)
(26.8%)
(5.2%)
(5.2%)
(3.1%)
'(2.1%)
(7.2%)
47
28
7
4
6
0
4
(49%)
(29.2%)
(7-3%)
(4:2%)
(6.3%)
<43%)
'»•-.' '
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TABLE 2 — Atttedtt of Tefe»
i
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¥
nem
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
4.
9.
10.
11.
12.
The rights of others in the mall
should be respected
People who work hard deserve credit
It's important to be friendJy
How you look is very important
The security guards deserve
respect and should be obeyed
Life is to be enjoyed
Most kids here don't care what
adults think of them
Most kids here don't care what
kids think of them
It's okay to shoplift .
There's nothing wrong with just
hanging around
Other people's feelings are
important
It's important to be part of the
group and follow what the group does
Value
Consideration
Industry
Friendliness
Appearance
Respect for
Authority
Personal Pleasure
Concern for
Adults
Concern for
Peer Groups
Honesty
Industry
Sensitivity
Conformity
Number and
Percentage
of Agreement
94
93
97
58
68
102
57
41
10
77
97
13
(87.9%)
(86.9%)
(90.6%)
(54.2%)
(63.5%)
(95.3%)
(53.2%)
(38.3%)
<9.3%)
(72%)
(90.6%)
(12.1%)
13. It's important to remain calm
when you're provoked or angry
ularly true in suburban areas which grew up with-
out much planning and, as a result, usually lack
adequate facilities for young people.
To many young people, therefore, shopping cen-
ters are the suburban equivalent of the street cor-
ners where city kids congregate. What other sin-
gle location offers as much diversified activity?
You can &hnrv VAU~£&H sit' vou c&n mefit friends
"Cool"72 (67.3%)
and talk; you can look,around, and you can eat.
Compare this with the limited opportunities of-
fered, for example, at a movie theater or a school
dance. Furthermore, in many communities
schools are not open evenings and over weekends
when youngsters have available leisure time, and
many teen centers offer too limited a choice. At «t
resujt, and in large pan due to the lack of alter-
natives, shopping centers are popular hangouts.
Item
Perceniagt of Positive
Adult Responses
1J
3
degree of cheerfulness
degree of consideration
degree of politeness
degree of friendliness
degree of sociability
degree of responsibility
degree of activity
degree of calmness
degree of cleanliness
degree of conspicuousness
degree of conformity to society
degree of noise
81.3%
73.9%
72.9%
69.2%
67.3%
67.2%
64.2%
61.7%
59.8%
51.9%
45.7%
23.4%
e this study found that "hanging out" is not
necessarily a negative phenomenon, other alterna-
tives for teens certainly can be more constructive.
The impetus for 'finding such alternatives, how •
• ,jf^, -. * m i! r -T ' ' ~~"r^^fcmerorn the local community and^depe^del^upon'tfte community's aware-
bf the lieed for .such. facilities and its resolve
toeet that m need. Since shopping centers are
retailing facilities first and foremost, the range of
youth-oriented facilities required are necessarily
limited.
Attitudes of Adolescents
Who Utilize Shopping Centers
In the Philadelphia study, the 107 teenagers at
four malls in the Philadelphia area responded to
13 items relating to their attitudes about the shop-
ping center and about life in general. The results
indicated that the vast majority support the same
set of values as does shopping center manage-
ment. (See Table 2.)
The survey showed that young people reject the
value of dishonesty and are very positive in rela-
tion to consideration, industry and friendliness.
Although somewhat less enthusiastic, they are
nonetheless positive about appearance and respect
for authority. They also are much more concerned
about what other teens think of them than adult
attitudes towards them. The one area in which
their views run counter to that of shopping center
rnanagement is Item 10: "There's nothing wrong
with just hanging around." This view was sup-
ported by some 72 per cent of the teens ques-
tioned. It is doubtful that a high percentage of
managers would accept that point of view.
The 107 adult shoppers and store employees in-
terviewed at the four malls were quite positive
about teenagers. Adults were asked to rate the
teenagers who frequent the center on the basis of
12 behavioral characteristics—friendliness, re-
sponsibility, consideration, cheerfulness, sociabil-
ity, conformity to society, calmness, politeness,
conspicuousness, activity, cleanliness and noisi-
ness. They gave the teenagers favorable ratings
for 10 of the 12 items, with only "conformity to
society" and "noise" receiving less than 50 per
cent approval from the adults. (See Table 3.)
The image of hordes of adolescents roaming
shopping centers on a regular basis and upsetting
adults and management simply is not substanti-
ated by the Philadelphia study and observations
related to the study. In the main, adolescents
congregated in groups of two to four and pre-
dominantly at locations-selected by them rather
than management. The majority interviewed came
to the shopping center less than once a week, did
not engage in illegal activities, behaved in a gen-
erally positive manner, supported most of soci-
ety's values. "Just hanging around" provided a
sense of enjoyment.
"Qve writer is of the opinion, based cm tfaetefiod-
ings and observations, thai teenagers (at least tub:
urban 'teenagers)Jare bored and come'to shopping
C£fltejsjmunl£ijMpl|<^jC>*|Qv About 50 per cent
saioTrfcyTometo^riopnneremaindcr mostly "to
look around" or because there is "nothing else to
do." But even those who come to shop view
shopping as a social acitivity which brings them
to a place where they can be seen, where they
meet people and spend time. ^At the,, very^
adults found teenage behavion• • i ,ro- yi ;m S i MI in —*•*and annoying, but.very
The sampling of 107 teenagers and an equal num-
ber of adults is not large, but in the writer's
opinion represents a sufficient number to draw
some meaningful conclusions. These findings
were supported by the results of the second part
of the research effort, which was conducted
among shopping center managers.
•TABLE 4 — Analysis of Respo'-'~"S from Centers
Jf
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m.
rv.
V.
Section of U.S. or Canada
Northeast
Southeast
Midwest
Southwest
Rockies
Farwest
Canada
Hawaii
Other
No answer
Area of Location
urban
rural
suburban
central business
No answer
Number of Stores
under 25
25-50
51-100
101-125
over 125
No answer
Size of Center
up to 100,000 sq. ft.
100.000 to 300,000 sq.ft.
300,001 to 600,000 sq.ft.
600,001 to 800,000 sq.ft.
800,001 to 1,000 ,000 sq.ft.
over 1 ,000,000 sq.ft.
No answer
Type of Center
enclosed mall
open mall
mixed (partially enclosed)
strip
specialty
other
Number
26
30
34
16
13
28
32
5
3
1
49
6
124
6
3
10
46
97.
21 _.
13
1
8
37
47
33
30
31
2
127
34
10
14
2
1
PerCent
13.8
16.0
18.1
8.5
6.9
14.9
17.0
2.7
1.6
.5
26.1
3.2
66.0
3.2
1.6
5.3
24.5
51.6
11.2
6.9
.5
4.3
19.7
25.0
17.6
16.0
"16.5
1.1
67.6
18.1
5.3
7.4
1.1
.5
ICSC Study of Shopping Center Managers
To follow up the Philadelphia study, ICSC ex-
amined the extent of the youth problem as
viewed by shopping centers and ways that various
centers deal with youth-oriented problems.
This was accomplished by mailing questionnaires
to 400 Certified ioppjn Center Managers
ited States and Canada. There
was a 47 per cent response received—jft8 fully
completed questionnaires were returned. In addi-
tion to general background information, the ques-
tionnaire asked center managers to supply data
and evaluations of teenage behavior, give infor-
mation on management's and security's responses
to teenage behavior. (See Table 4.)
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Under 12
13-16
17-21
22-35
36-50
Over 50
Agt LrTOUp Vt tUCD MCfci t rtaqUC&U} Lfct» ' 'Xitl
Centers Responding
I
8
5
108
54
2
Don't know or no response 10
Percentage
.5
4.3
2.7
57.4
28.7
1.1
5.3
TABLE 6
3
3
1
Managers' Rating of Teenage Behavior
Very Positive
Somewhat Positive
Neutral
Somewhat Negative
No Response
Great
Moderate
. Minor
Non-Existent
[ No Response
V
i .•i
Greatest problem
Number 2 problem
Number 3 problem
Number 4 problem
Number 5 problem
fr Number 6 problem
Other
Number of
Centers
21
77
63
25
2
Managers' Estimate, of Degree of Teen Problem
Number
9
64
105
7
3
Managers' Rating of Incidence of Drug Activity
Number of .
Centers
I
1
8
15
72 '- •
9
82
Percentage
11.2
41.0
33.5
13.3
1.1
Percentage
4.8
34.0
55.9
3.7
1.6
Percentage
.5
.5
'•-' ••- 4.3 .
*.0
•- ?38.3
•- J|.« -
;" ^al3.6
J
1
The sample represents a good cross section of
shopping centers throughout the U.S. and Cana-
da. Two out of three centers are in suburban
areas, with the remainder chiefly in urban areas.
The majority of center managers reported that the
22-35 age group utilizes their center most fre-
quently, with the 36-50 age group next (See
Table 5). Those centers which reported "serious
problems" with teenagers (nine centers) indicated
more frequent use by the 13-16 age group than
did the others. These centers also represent 5 per
cent of the total response. Over 75 per cent of all
centers rated teenage use as moderate.
f
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JJ
The greatest problem caused by teenagers was
loud and disruptive behavior; drug activity in the
centers was reported to be minor. In fact, only
one center out of the 188 rated drug activity as its
major problem.
Most centers (58.59t) reported that teenagers ten-
ded to congregate in special areas of the center,
particularly near youth-oriented businesses. Teen-
age use was heaviest on weekends and in the
evenings.
The vast majority of managers found teen behav-
ior positive (See Table 6), but often times noisy
and conspicuous.
These positive judgments by on-the-scene manag-
ers closely parallel the findings in the survey of
adult customers and store employees undertaken
in the Philadelphia study referred to earlier.
Only 3.7 per cent (seven centers) stated that they
had serious security problems—for the most pan
theft and public disturbance. Drug use and more
serious crimes ranked very low even in these
centers.
Only 41 per cent said that they had procedures for
dealing with teens and, of those, six actually
forwarded detailed information (see page 15 for
discussion of these procedures).
Loitering, littering, running and shoplifting were
the most common teenage offenses; drug and
weapon possession were almost non-existent.
When asked how they would respond to the
various misbehaviors, 72.9 per cent of the
managers said they would call the police or arrest
(if they were empowered to do so) in the event of
shoplifting, 78.7 per cent would call police or
arrest for drug possession, and 83 per cent would
do likewise for weapon possession. (See Table 7).
Seventy-four of the 188 centers provide special
services or programs for teenagers. Of these, 35
offer recreational programs, 15 offer social ser-
vices, 15 cultural, and 9 provide other types of
programs that were not specified. (See discussion
of these programs, page 16.)
Urban/Suburban Comparisons
The reports showed that teenagers in suburban
centers spent more time fighting, drinking, litter-
ing and walking than did their urban counterparts_
but also presented fewer over-all problems. Simi-
larly, managers of suburban centers were less
positive about teenage behavior than managers of
urban centers. Centers in the suburbs employed
more security personnel.
}
1
1
TABLE 7 — How Managers' Respond to Crimes
Number of
Centers Percentage
•.!. Sboplifdng
.Oil police
.-Call parents
•Ask to leave
ignore or warn
No response
n. Drug Poaaeadon
Call police
i Call parents
; -Ask to leave . .
r •-. . - .. .Ignore or warn .;...„• .»
i. ... No response . -_~v-
i m. Weapon PUMMfeB ._. ...^L tf -^^"p0"** .^ ..-..'-. ^.^.w-r --**»' v XU parents " '- '~™
, ^Ajk to leave
137
36
1
3
11
148
19
4 -
3
14
. - : '•'••!
.... itv... -( ": . . -^*56f ^. ^. ^.,,,.'Jj,_. . .^.j^, . .,A«. ......
3
72.9
19.1
.5
1.6
S.8
78.7
10.1
2.1
-4.6 ^;.
7.4 ^
; ,83.6
*""'•" 5.8
1.6
1.6
8.0
37
11
\,»J;i\
TABLE 8 — Managers' Estimates of How Teenagers Spend Time
Enclosed Mall (126)
Open Mall (34)
Mixed (10)
Strip (14)
Specialty (2)
Shopping
43
(34.1%)
16
(47.1%)
4
(40%)
5
.(35.7%)
0
Walking
49
(38.9%)
12
(35.3%)
2
(20%)
5
(35.7%)
1
(50%)
Sitting
31
(24.6%)
3
(8.8%)
4
(40%)
4
(28.6%)
0
Otter
3
(2.4%)
3
(8.8%)
0
0
1
(50%)
One significant finding was that management in
suburban centers is more inclined to call parents
about misbehavior than the police. This is in
keeping with the results of a recent juvenile
delinquency study which found that the more
urbanized an area becomes, the less "parenting"
occurs. This has led to various institutions (such
as courts, social service agencies, etc.) having to
take up some of the parental lag. The apparent
assumption is that suburban center managers have
more faith that parents will carry out {heir role
and prefer to call upon them before involving the
police. This does not seem to be the case in urban
areas.
Urban centers reported more shoplifting, and
more destruction of property than their suburban
counterparts. In addition, more social service
programs were found at urban centers, while
suburban centers offered more recreational and
cultural services.
Number of Stores
and Size of Center
A direct relationship was found between the
number of stores or size of a center and teen
behavior. Although teenagers congregated more
frequently at the larger centers (over 125»
and stayed for longer periods of time, tncfr
seemed to pre^j^ewe^Drfi^rai inan ^ejie-
ported^at imiUef^oenteJfc Managers of centers
With fewer than 25'stores or less than 100,000 sq.
ft. rated teenage behavior more negatively—teens
were noisier and there were higher incidences of
loitering, drinking, running, shouting and fight-
ing.
The survey of CSMs also determined that the
larger centers had more formalized procedures for
dealing with teens and offered more special ser-
vices. [50 per cent of the large centers have such
procedures, only 33 per cent of the small centers
do}. Some 30 per cent of centers widrgrp^
stores Coffered feme, sort ofl TOU^.,—,. -wm
service.' Such Centers also were more inclined to
ignore littering, were less likely to call the police
for drug or weapon possession and more disposed
to call parents in case of problems. This greater
flexibility on the pan of larger centers in dealing
with teens, when taken in context with their more
structured security operations, outwardly appears
to be an anomaly. Upon further reflection,
however, it is a logical extension of the degree to
which sophisticated security forces apply strength
on an only-as-needed basis.
Also at large centers (over 1,000,000 square feet)
a greater percentage of teens spent their time
shopping. The managers of these centers rated
teen behavior as the least problematic and the
most conformist, but also reported a greater inci-
dence of shoplifting. While shoplifting seemingly
was not a major problem for centers with under
25 stores or under 100,000 square feet, it
appeared to be the biggest problem for centers in
the over 1,000,000-square-foot category.
Enclosed Centers vs.
Open Centers
As reported earlier, 85.7 per cent of the centers
studied were malls—either enclosed or open.
While open malls cited a higher incidence of
teenage shopping, enclosed malls reported more
walking around, congregating,"Hoiterirfg, and
occupying of sinin^'a|eas. There is a consistency
here: enclosed malls tend to be newer and larger
and the feature ofTemperatfin? control makes mem
comfc
walk
»to come ft 6 titin,
itT" (See TabTe 8.)
Enclosed centers also reported slightly higher
incidences of defacing property, shoplifting, and
drug possession. Open centers exhibited a
stronger response to littering and were more likely
to call the police for fighting. They also appeared
to be more lenient relative to the defacement of
property.
Misbehavior
Theft, mainly in the form of shoplifting, was the
biggest problem reported by center managers. It
was particularly high in the Southeast and Far
West and at urban centers. Suburban centers
reported less theft than was the norm based on the
over-all response to the survey. (See Table 9.)
Public disturbance, including noise, horseplay,
etc., was rated the second biggest problem, and
was reported more frequently in suburban centers.
Vandalism was particularly high at small centers
—under 25 stores and under 100,000 square feet.
Many of these centers (60 per cent) are strips.
*Major crime, while low in incidence, did occur at
the large centers. It was virtually non-existent at
smaller centers, according to the responses.
Drug use was low everywhere, but higher at
smaller centers in rural areas than in other types
of centers. The lowest drug use was reported by
those centers with more than 125 stores. The
degree of surveillance (by both police and center
personnel) at larger centers may be partly ac-
countable for this response. But even so, it is
clear that drug use or sale of drugs on the prem-
ises is not a major problem for virtually all cen-
ters.
This is significant in view of a recent Federal
finding of a rise in drug use in the U.S. How then
can the low incidence of drug use at shopping
centers be explained? One possible explanation is
that most teens simply do not use shopping
centers as places to engage in drug activity...too
busy, too public, etc. Another explanation is that
center managers and security simply are not
aware of the degree of drug activity at their
centers. This .^uld well explain the small inci-
dence of drug use reported at large centers, where
it might be easier for youngsters to hide 'drugs
from management and authorities. But even in
small centers, where there is a greater concentra-
tion of the public and of surveillance, drug acti-
vity appears minimal.
There are no definitive answers at present as to
why shopping center experience runs counter to
the national trend. But the fact is that no signifi-
cant portion of shopping center managers or the
adult shopping public finds that shopping centers
are the scene of major drug activity. Nor, for that
matter, has this author found any documented
reports to indicate that shopping centers, as a
group, are any more prone to be the locale for
teenage drug activity than other public facilities.
Security
Even centers which have serious security prob-
lems did not rate teenage behavior negatively,
although they were less positive than other cen-
ters. In addition, few of them have procedures for
dealing with teens or provide youth-oriented pro-
grams and/or services. The survey found that pro-
cedures for dealing with teens were more numer-
ous in the larger, suburban enclosed centers
where teens are frequent inhabitants. Centers that
have procedures for dealing with teens were
somewhat firmer in responding lo teenage misbe-
II
1
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1
3
a
1
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haviors than others. Teens in such centers also
showed greater compliance with guard instruc-
tions and engaged in less theft and vandalism. In
the main, centers developed procedures and rules
as needed rather than devising them in advance or
in anticipation of problem behavior.
Centers with serious security problems reported
considerably more 13-to-16-year-olds and 17-to-
2l-year-olds using the center than was the norm.
In addition, the large teenage population congre-
gated mostly on evenings and weekdays and less
on weekends and holidays. This is in contrast to
the majority of other centers (those with no major
security problems) which found that teen use of
TABLE 9
Central
t Bwiae«(6)
Shoplifting By Section of U.S. mud Canada
Northeast
(23)
Southeast
(28)
Midwest
(32)
• Southwest
(16)
: Rockies
<13)
I FarWest
(27)
Canada
(30)
Almost
Never *
1
(4.3%)
0
2
(6.3%)
0
o -
0
0
i
Not
Often
2
(8.7%)
2
^%)
5
(15.6%)
2
(12.5%)
0
2
(7.4%)
5
(16.7%)
Shoplifting by Area
Urban
(46)
Rural
(6)
Suburban
<119> .,
XJmaif
*fev«-
0
0
.
' 3 "':.....v<M^).."-"-
Not
Often
7
<15.2%)
1
<16.7%) ...
12
Jj1^-1*) - ,
Sometimes
13
(56.5%)
10
<34.5%)
13
(40.6%)
8
(50%)
9
(69.2%)
14
(51.9%)
21
(70%)
of Location
Sometimes
18
(39.1%)
' ^ "*tf .-'
^66.7%).% ,
« ,.r^<52.9%);s^i
Fairly
Often
5
(21.7%)
12
(41.4%)
' 8
(25%)
5
<31.3%)
4
(30.8%)
9
(33.3%)
4
(13.3%)
Fairfy
Often
17
(37%)
.i. 1
*tf6.7%)
30**"*>.',.-
F«ry
O/i«i
2
<8.7%)
5
(17.2%)
4
(12.5%)
1
(6.3%)
0
2
(7-4%)
.0
Very
Often
4
(8-7%)
11
<9 -2*)
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centers was far heavier on weekends and holi-
days. This would tend to indicate that teens who
frequent centers evenings and weekdays arc more
••hard core" than their weekend counterparts. It
also might be assumed that these teenagers choose
to stay away from the centers on the weekends
when, coincidentally, security is greatest.
The many different approaches to teenage
security described by center managers fall into
two broad categories:
• Those who take a ' 'hardline-no nonsense''
approach and see teens as needing to be con-
trolled and disciplined.
• TJutxe'why treat teens with the sameTespEct•**'GP*'lffpf*»ff~*^¥*~i<~m*f'<t* •• ,m,—,, \- ^.given to any ctfstomer ana encourage their4MvJM^ffitftfaf TM^-Dhilosopto wajTbest bortrayed by
oju manager who slated, '^ney're^shoppenTnot
the enemy." r
Some centers report success in reasoning with
teens and try to seek their help in controlling their
peers, particularly troublemakers. One center es-
tablished friendly relations with center
"regulars." It explained the regulations to the
teenagers and asked them to interpret the rules to
other members of the youth community. Another
went to the "teen leadership" and offered S50
rewards for the names of youngsters who were
connected with thefts at the center. The tactic was
successful at this one center.
In terms of shoplifting, most centers took the
view that it is an individual store problem. This
was translated into procedures by which center
security personnel could assist but not arrest or
press charges. The exceptions were in instances
where center security was deputized or had other
special powers.
Some methods used by centers to minimize dis-
ruptive behavior by teens are:
• Posting rules prominently in the mall;
• Getting schools to cooperate by making the
center off limits to certain students;
• Checking for truancy during the day;
• Using off-duty policemen as guards, particu-
larly policemen who know the problem young-
sters;
• Keeping teenage groups limited to 3 or 4;
• Singling out the ringleader *>hen problems
arise and turning him over to the authorities;
• Asking youngsters to leave if they have loitered
beyond one-half hour.
Other centers encouraged teen cooperation by
issuing permits to school groups for participation
in special projects, or by letting the schools,
churches and .youth groups know that the center is
available for teen activities sponsored by adults.
One center conducted a fommunications program
(lectures, films, dialogue) with a local high
school on the subject of shoplifting.
A center in the Southwest had a problem centered
around a group of high school students using the
parking lot as a meeting place in the evening. In
addition to requesting direct police assistance, the
manager adjusted parking lot lighting to remain
on until 2 a.m. and met frequently with leaders of
the youth group. This approach has helped solve
the problem.
A California center attributed its good relations
wjlh teenagers to management's basic aftitude to-
them. Center personnel are expected to ob-
serve the following rules:
• Never yell at a young person. Instead of saying
"hey kid" we say "young man" or "young lady,
please don't, etc."
• Be willing to explain why you are asking a
teenager to dp or not do as you are asking.
• Measure your action to their response.
• Welcome teenagers under your terms. Gener-
ally, young people respect fair, firm treatment.
A center in Minnesota employed a former
juvenile officer from the local police department.
By rotating shifts, each security officer eventually
was able to work with and learn from this officer.
In this way, every member of the security force
gained knowledge in handling teenagers and
became personally acquainted with potential
troublemakers. Greeting teens by first name
appeared to destroy anonymity and helped defuse
potential problem situations. The manager of this
center also pointed out that teenage behavior
beyond the control of security officers was
referred elsewhere (police or school authorities,
youth agencies, etc.).
A manager in New Jersey indicated that when a
I
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!
juvenile offender is apprehended, the local police
are contacted and the youth's record is checked.
If he has no local record, his parents are called
and asked to come to the center to discuss the
problem. No parent has ever refused.
An innovative peer approach was reported by an
upstate New York mall. It employs young
female guides who act mainly as hostesses, but
also function as security personnel. The guides
usually make the first contact with unruly teen-
agers and have been generally successful. When
this fails, the guides use a walkie-talkie to
summon assistance.
A mall in Hawaii recruits security guards who
grew up in the area and thus can communicate
with the teens in the local fashion ."by word and
gesture."
Other mall managers were not as inclined to
attempt to build "relationships" with the teens
who frequent their centers. One Ohio mall has a
three-step procedure in dealing with ju^c-vile
offenders. It is used for minor crimes, such as
loitering and use of profanity, but not for major
crimes such as theft or property damage.
Basically, the procedure is as follows:
1. Name, address and phone numbers are logged
by officer on duty. Offenders are released with a
warning, but not restricted from the mall.
2. Second offense - offenders must leave the mall
and their parents are notified. The offenders are
told not to return to the shopping center. ,
3. Third offense - police or juvenile authorities
are called.
One Michigan mall has the local loitering ordi-
nance photoprinted on an aluminum plate,
covered with transparent plastic and riveted to
piers throughout the mall. Habitual offenders are
escorted to one of the sign locations by a security
guard, asked to read the ordinance, and then in-
structed that loitering will not be tolerated.
The varied responses of center managers are typi-
cal of the choices every adult faces when dealing
with teens...be he parent, teacher or manager of a
public facility. Flexible pragmatism might be the
best answer—whatever works is the best solution.
In between the two extremes of permissiveness
and the so-called "law and order" approach
exists a wide latitude of possible alternatives.
Special Programs and Services
Centers which have special programs for teens
tend to have stronger responses to teenage misbe-
havior and are more positive about teenagers.
wteclj.viewed teenage behaY-
ivefy provided special services
Over-all, 18.6 per cent of the managers reported
they provide special services or programs for
teenagers.
Suburban centers have the largest percentage of
such programs, largely recreational and cultural in
nature. Social services were more common at
urban centers, although there were no such ser-
vices at larger, enclosed centers.
Where recreational programs existed, teens were
found to be noisier and less well-mannered than
the norm. They also engaged in more shoplifting
and "hung around" mow at youth-type busi-
nesses. This is to be expected; recreational pro-
grams attract teens—and with teens come noise,
disruptions (major and minor) and more "hanging
out." While no manager measured sales, it must
be assumed that consumption of goods and ser-
vices also rose as a result of the increased teen
traffic drawn to the center by recreational pro-
grams. Does one justify the other? Hard to
tell...and no real way to measure in the abstract.
Centers which have special services of one kind
or another reported less drug activity, less annoy-
ing of customers, and less vandalism than is the
norm.
Seventy-four centers reported that they offer spe-
cial recreational, cultural, or social service (coun-
seling, rap groups, etc.) activities for teens.
These included:
• Mall events to solicit contributions to non-
profit youth groups;
m A drug and distress center for teens;
• Use of a community booth to raise funds for
teen groups;
• Hiring of teen music groups;
• A teen board to do charity work in the com-
munity: .
• Frequent programs of pop, rock, light opera ™
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and summer stock:
• A teenage consulting board:
• A baby sitting referral sen-ice:
• Hiring of teens for a Christmas wrapping ser-
vice:
• Providing community rooms, game rooms, and
amusement centers for teen activities:
• A drug prevention clinic:
• School coordinated programs on safety, athle-
tics, musical events, etc.
One center parking lot has a baseball diamond.
Another center has a model race car track. And a
third acts as a Drum and Bugle Corps training
site. Some centers organize merchants to sponsor
youth activities, and one center offers free break-
fasts for community youth groups using the facili-
ty-
A center in Salt Lake City developed a retailing
program which reaches into marketing classes in
high schools. Another center features retailing
seminars for the teenage population.
A center in Quebec Province operates a non-de-
nominational chapel with a counseling chaplain
on the site at all times. The author is aware of a
similar chapel (called the "Church on the Mail")
at one of the centers in the Philadelphia area.
Problem Centers
Of the nine centers reporting a great degree of
teen problem behavior, five were located in the
Southeast.
All nine centers had fewer than 100 stores and
less than 800,000 square feet of space. Eight
were enclosed malls. Seven reported frequent teen
use. A younger population, particularly in the
13-16 age group, also was found in greater num-
bers at these centers.
The nine centers reported that teens spent very
little time shopping and considerably more time
"sitting" than was reported by the remainder of
the sample. These managers expressed the view
that failure of teens to follow rules was the chief
causative factor, but over-all their reactions to
teen behavior was not negative.
Far fewer teens were employed by these centers
than by the other centers surveyed (See Table 10).
One supposition is that where the center (or the
stores in them) shows confidence in teens by
hiring them, teens respond positively and identify
the center as a place of employment to which they
develop a sense of loyalty and responsibility.
While hiring policies are within the domain of
store managers, rather than center personnel,
nonetheless it follows that center managers might
want to urge stores to recognize the merits of
hiring teenage personnel.
TABLE 10
Under 10%
10-24%
25-50%
Over 50%
No Response
Percentage of Teens Employed All Centers
Number of
Centers
71
85
24
2
6
Percentage
37.8
45.2
12.8
1.1
3.2
Comparison of Teen Employment at Centers with ''Great Problems" vs. Others
•
Great Problems
(9)
Other
(170)
VnderlO%
6
(66.7%)
64
(37.6%)
70-24%
2
(22.2%)
83
<4*.8%)
25-50%
1
(11.1%)
21
(12.4%)
Over 50%
0
2
(1-2%)
77
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TABLE 11 — Procedures for Dealing with Teens
Comparison of Centers with "Great Problems" vs. Others
Great Problems
(9)
Other
(168)
Have Procedure
3
(33.3%)
73
(43.5%)
No Procedure
€
(66.7%)
95
(56.5%)
Seven of the nine centers reporting "great teenage
problems" also claimed to have serious security
problems; the other two viewed their security
problems as being moderate.
The nine centers also reported more freauent
misbehaviors on all items than did the other
centers. Their responses to such misbehaviors are
stricter on major offenses (shoplifting, vandalism,
destroying property, drug activity, fighting,
weapon possession) and less strict on minor
offenses (littering, running, shouting, blocking
walkways and exits, and occupying sitting areas).
They also provide less special services to teens,
25 per cent as compared to an over-all 39 per
cent, and the services they do provide are largely
of a recreational nature.
At the problem centers, more "hanging around"
occurs near youth businesses and in open areas.
Also, teens gather more frequently on evenings
and weekdays, when there is less security. An
obvious conclusion for centers in which a hard
core of teenagers congregate might be to re-
deploy security to those evenings and weekday
hours when teenage "hangers" congregate.
Follow up with the nine centers revealed some
interesting additional information related to
individual circumstances. •
One center in the midwest reported that large
groups congregated in the parking lot evenings
and weekends. Instances of drag racing, use of
drugs and alcohol, and intimidation of customers
were reported. Neither the city police nor the
courts were helpful, as they viewed the parking
lot as private property and felt they had no author-
ity to exercise control there. A security company
was employed, but the teens defied them because
of their limited authority and lack of back up from
city police. Finally, near election time, a locally
TABLE 12 — Drug Possession
Comparison of Centers with "Great Problems" vs. Others
Almost
Never
Great Problems 0
(9)
Other 71
(166) (42.8%)'
Not
Often
2
(22.2%)
54
(32.5%)
Sometimes
6
(66.7%)
36 .
(21.7%)
Fairly
Often
0
5
O.0%)
Very
Often
1
(11.1%)
0
*
tII*
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prominent attorney was hired by the merchants.
He was able to cite two local ordinances which
obligated the police to patrol and arrest for loiter-
ing and unlawful assemblage. A problem that
plagued this center for ten years was all but elimi-
nated.
Another center reported heavy drug use and sales,
leaving the manager with no alternative but to
push for "crackdowns" and arrests. Police
presence, some key arrests, and removal of the
telephones in the common area which were used
for making drug contacts resulted in a dimunition
of the problem.
q
A midwestem center which serves an affluent
community experienced problems which it attrib-
utes mainly to "boredom of youth" in that com-
munity—hanging around, some destruction of
property, pulling fire alarms, and generally exhib-
iting irritating and annoying behavior. To date
management has been unable to alter behavior.
Management recognizes that the solutions rest
more with the community than with the center,
and that the ills that are besetting the center are
merely reflections of deeper problems requiring
total community interaction.
The prevailing view of the nine center managers
was that their problems were related to factors
outside of management's control—the center's
proximity to the high school, the center's location
in an area of racial tension, or the lack of respon-
siveness by local authorities to the center's
problems. The one common thread among these
problem centers was thai each faced a unique
problem based on individual circumstances which,
only could be understood and dealt with on a case
by case basis.
The small number of "problem centers" in the
survey in comparison to the total sample leads to
certain research-oriented caveats. It could well be
that the managers of these nine centers are more
vocal, or less permissive, than their counterparts
elsewhere. It could also be that their centers are
atypical. Even so, there were significant devia-
tions from the norm in such matters as teen
hiring, procedures (or lack of them) for dealing
with teen prcui'ms, drugs, lack of special ser-
vices, and general security problems. The author
eschews making any judgments as to why these
centers differed from the other 179 respondents,
beyond reiterating the obvious—each center
serves its own community which, in turn, has its
own sets of circumstances.
Guidelines for Management
Athough a great deal of information has been
generated by the Philadelphia study and the
1CSC study which followed, it is difficult to give
definitive advice to management. The diversity of
communities in which centers are located pre-
cludes developing concrete guidelines for han-
dling teens in all sorts of situations.
Both studies found that, with some minor ex-
ceatlpps.. teenagers do opt present major prob-
«ems for center management. Further, when
treated with, |es^l and ^licern, teens *
It follows, then, that
management should not prejudge teenagers
based upon stereotypes or other generalized
views, nor should they over-anticipate teen
problems.
Dealing with Teens
The major teen misbehaviors seem to be shop-
lifting, public disturbances (such as horseplay,
noise, running, etc.) and loitering. While shop-
lifting is regarded as a merchant problem in most
centers, its effects are felt by everyone in the
shopping center community. Even though in most
instances center security personnel may not arrest
and press charges, their presence is bound to have
a deterrent value in discouraging would-be shop-
lifters—young and old.
Community education is a good auxiliary mea-
sure. The center which developed a communica-
tions' program in the schools found it very effec-
tive. The Philadelphia study found that almost
I
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100 per cent of the teens surveyed rejected shop-
lifting as an approved behavior. This view on the
part of the vast majority of young people needs to
be reinforced by various community educational
means...be they organized by individual centers,
by groups of centers serving the same area, or by
the entire community.
The offenses of public disturbances and
loitering are very much a pan of the youth cul-
ture and are highly acceptable to teens. While it is
doubted that much inroad can be made to totally
eliminate these misbehaviors, they can be re-
duced. Generally, managers found that when
teens were respected they reciprocated by extend-
ing their respect. Explanations rather than auto-
cratic orders could well be the first step in devel-
oping better relationships with teens. If talking or
reasoning is unsuccessful, other and stronger
measures can always be implemented.
Teenage behavior is somewhat better when cen-
ters have procedures for dealing with teens. Such
guidelines generally lead to more consistent re-
sponses from management's arms—security and
staff. Also, teens gain a greater grasp of what
behavior is acceptable, what will be tolerated, and
what is unacceptable.
The procedure of calling parents before calling
police has worked well, particularly in suburban
areas where parents seem to be responsive to such
involvement. In areas where parents are less're-
sponsive, the alternative of working with schools,
social agencies, or other community institutions
appears to be the favored alternative (particularly
for minor or first-time offenses) than involving
law enforcement authorities.
Hiring of teens seems to be a good policy. Those
centers with a higher percentage of teen employ-
ees reported more positive teenage behavior, and
vice-versa. If nothing else, this may give those
teens who are bored an outlet for their energies.
The finding that problem centers have larger num-
bers of 13-to-16-year-olds is significant. This
younger teen group should prove to be easier to
influence and control than older (17-21) teens
who may not be attending school, are working,
not living at home, and are less responsive to
authority. The prospects are good for reaching the
13-to-16-year-old group through parents, school.
or community resources. Youngsters of this age
are just beginning to assert independence, but are
not yet independent of family or school. They
generally are less alienated and more accessible
than their 17-to-2l-year-old1 counterparts. It
would appear to be basic for center managers and
security personnel to know more about the nature
of adolescents using their centers and to recognize
that 14-year-olds behave very differently than
\ 8-year-olds.
Security
jgtne centers report that good rapport with teen-
agers has co'rne aboutbecause they have hired-M_^—r*—••- • ••••»• -• !•-• •-•*•guards who: >
• Know how 10 relate,to and deal with teens;
m Crew up near the center and, therefore, know
the community well and understand the particular
group of youngsters who frequent the center;
• Are ex-policemen who know the troublemakers
in the area;
• Received some special training.
In addition to knowledge of law enforcement pro-
cedures and crowd control and safety techniques,
modem-day security practices require a grounding
in adolescent psychology, human behavior and
minority cultures. These are essential when deal-
ing with teens. Security procedures that are
spelled out clearly to the security staff also can be
more readily explained to young people.
In smaller centers without security personnel,
maintenance personnel or those charged with re-
sponsibility for the physical operation of the cen-
ter should be briefed on procedures and manage-
ment's general philosophy regarding teens.
Community
It's a truism that a shopping center is a reflection
of the community it serves. Shopping centers do
not create youth problems, but community prob-
lems may express themselves at shopping cen-
ters. It would be expected, for example, that cen-
ters located in high crime areas will experience a
high degree of shoplifting and vandalism, where-
as centers located in lower crime areas would not. -
The factors influencing teenage behavior, there- ^
6
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1
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fore, do not reside as much with the shopping
center, per se. as they do with the nature of the
community. While security procedures, manage-
ment policies and programs all influence teen be-
havior, they are not as critical in determining or
shaping teenage behavior as are other community-
related factors. Put simply, management cannot
operate in a vacuum and must take other factors
into consideration when making decisions regard-
ing teens.
As a first step, management should know what
youth services exist in the community. If the
shopping center is to be a good neighbor, it must
know the neighborhood. Such information may be
obtained by talking with religious leaders and
school officials about the types of services avail-
able through the churches, synagogues, and
schools. Meetings with youth officers of the local
police department should be arranged to assess
the extent of youth misbehavior in the area. The
professional manager should leam what social
service, youth and mental health agencies exist so
that they can be called upon if needed. Nor
should government officials, politicians and com-
munity organizations be overlooked as important
resources to marshal! when situations warrant this
type of assistance.
The manager must eventually make a basic
assessment. He must determine whether the teen-
age problem is one that has its roots in the com-
munity and, therefore, needs to be called to the
community's attention and worked on at a com-
munity level. In the alternative he must measure
the impact of the problem on his center and react
accordingly. It is between these parameters that
he must develop the perspective and program that
will enable his center to continue to do business
and serve its customers.
No one can question the importance of a center
becoming a viable and active part of the com-
munity in which it resides. A number of com-
munity participation activities are outlined in this
report; others can be developed as the result of
meaningful dialogue between shopping center
managers and their communities.
Programs or services for teens obviously must be
appropriate for the community and the teenagers
of that community in addition to making sense for
the shopping center. The fact that a recreational
program which encourages crowds may, in turn,
lead to an increase in misbehavior must be
weighed against the alternatives. What would be
the effect if there was no program? Do such
programs also attract new customers (teens as
well as adults) and result in increased sales? The
answers are not always easy to come by.
Conclusions:
This report attempts to provide center managers
with general trends, explanations of these trends,
and guidelines which might be useful. Much
more study needs to be undertaken in this very
complicated area. The strength of the report lies
in the utility of this data for center operators in
their day-to-day operations as well as in establish-
ing a rationale and methodology for developing
policies to deal with teens.
It is inappropriate, in the writer's opinion, to view
modern-day teens as incorrigible. They are not
always creators of problems wherever they gather
and therefore in need of "containment," although
they may well prove to be just that in certain
circumstances. The fact that only 4.8 per cent of
the centers participating in this study had any
"serious" teen problem clearly indicates that not
all teens should be tarred with a universal brush.
In the appendix of this report are copies of the
questionnaires used to survey teens and adult
shoppers in the original Philadelphia study. Indi-
vidual managers may well wish to adapt them to
their needs and conduct periodic surveys in their
own centers to keep abreast of teenage attitudes
about their center and to measure teenage behav-
ior now and in the future.
In sum, the most Important finding of this,
three-part study is thatteenagers dp no't repre-
aent a major source of trouble at chopping
centers and their behavior is viewed'By most
as well as adult shoppers as post-
five. Beyond this, there are many variables... each
relating to the individual center, its community
and the interaction of both upon that most unpre-
dictable of all human creations — the modern teen-
age person.
21
EXCERPTS - HIGHLIGHTS OF ENCLOSED PUBLISHED MATERIALS
SOURCES - PUBLISHED ENCLOSURES:
1) Apparel Merchandising
2) Advertising Age
3) Student Advertising, Inc.
4) Blade Tribune
5) Teenage Behavior in Shopping Centers (International Council of
Shopping Centers study - based on 188 fully completed questionaires
returned by Certified Shopping Center Managers)
Sources Quote
A) TEENAGERS - "CASH RICH CUSTOMERS" SOUGHT BY MERCHANTS
2 "The dramatic rise in the number of working women and
single parent households in the 70's is contributing to
the growth in the number of teen shoppers."
2 "Teenagers are earning more and spending more."
2 "Teenagers are (1) future customers; (2) cash-rich present
customers...."
3 "Even the grocers and drug stores benefit from student
purchasing power."
1 "J.C. Penney's research found the Jr. Hi shopper to be a
girl who: makes the buying decision; has her own money;
spends much of her free time browsing in malls."
B) TEENAGERS ARE ATTRACTED TO MALLS.
5 "To many young people, shopping centers are the suburban
equivalent of the street corners where city kids congregate."
5 "You (teen) can shop; you can sit; you can meet friends
and talk; you can look around; and you can eat."
5 "...based on these findings and observations, that teenagers
(at least suburban teenagers) are bored and come to shopping
centers mainly as a place to go. About 50 per cent said
they come to shop; the remainder mostly 'to look around'
or because there is 'nothing else to do1."
4 "To many businesanen, they're 'mall rats'. Ranging in age
-2-
frotn 11 to 25, they hang out in Southern California's air
conditioned, sometimes lavishly decorated shopping malls."
"It is apparent....that a major problem facing adolescents
is the lack of available places which satisfy their needs
for large scale social gatherings. There are few places
where the field for selecting friends, opportunities for
peer group interaction and meeting companions of the
opposite sex is as large and diversified as the shopping
center."
"As a result, and in large part due to the lack of
alternatives, shopping centers are popular hangouts."
C) TEENAGERS VISIT ENCLOSED MALLS TO "HANGOUT";
"Enclosed malls reported more walking around, congregrating,
loitering, and occupying of sitting areas. Enclosed
malls tend to be newer and larger and the feature of
temperature control makes them comfortable and pleasant
places to come, to sit in, walk around, or just hang out."
"Although teenagers congregated more frequently at the •
larger centers (over 125 stores) and stayed for longer
periods of time, they seemed to present fewer problems
than were reported at smaller centers."
"They'll sit for two hours sharing one coke" said Ken Poole,
general manager at Del Amo. "But has that really changed
over the last 40 years? In the old days there was the
soda fountain then it was the fr.ee standing McDonald's."
"There has always been a universal gathering place," said
Rex Beaber, clinical psychologist at University of
California - Los Angeles Medical Center. "That gathering
place historically was the 'town square1 that disappeared
in the 20th Century. Then came malls at a time when
there is a tremendous need for a social hangout."
"At the very worst, adults found teenage behavior occasionally
irritating and annoying, but very rarely destructive and
criminal."
"Both studies found that, with some minor exceptions,
teenagers do not present major problems for center
management. Further, when treated with respect and concern,
teens generally behave responsibly."
D) ENCOURAGING POSITIVE TEENAGE RESPONSE.
"While this study found that 'hanging out1 is not necessarily
a negative phenomenon, other alternatives for teens
certainly can be more constructive. The impetus for
-3-
finding such alternatives, however, must come from the
local community and must be dependent upon the community's
awareness of the need for such facilities and its resolve
to meet that need."
5 "Centers...Those who treat teens with the same respect
given to any customer and encourage their presence. This
philosophy was best portrayed by one manager who stated,
'They're shoppers, not the enemy."1
5 "Some 30 per cent of centers wwith over 125 stores offered
some sort of youth activity or service.
5 "None of the centers which viewed teenage behavior somewhat
negatively provided special services or programs for teens."
5 "A California center attributed its good relations with
teenagers to management's basic attitude toward them.
Center personnel are expected to observe rules - including;
Never yell at a young person; Be willing to explain why
you are asking a teenager to do as you are asking; Measure
your action to their response; Welcome teenagers under your
terms. Generally, young people respect fair, firm treatment."
5 "Some centers report that good rapport with teenagers has
come about because they have hired (security) guards who;
know how to relate to teens; Received some special
training."
5 "IN SUM, THE MOST IMPORTANT PINGING OF THIS THREE-PART
STUDY IS THAT TEENAGERS DO NOT REPRESENT A MAJOR SOURCE
OF TROUBLE AT SHOPPING CENTERS AND THEIR BEHAVIOR IS
VIEWED BY MOST MANAGEMENT AS WELL AS ADULT SHOPPERS AS
POSITIVE."
EL CAMINO REAL - FUN CENTER
RECAP OF SECURITY REPORTS - FIRST QUARTER - 1985
January
OF INCIDENTS
' 6
February
March
Fun Center Security curtailed disturbing
incidents; assisted Carlsbad Police in
arrest of minor, intoxicated off premises;
arranged for speedy assistance to injured
mall patron.
Fun Center Security rendered assistance
to Mall Security and alerted Mall Security
to the 3 incidents in the Common Area,
within visual observation.
One altercation incident marred otherwise
incident free month.
SUMMARY COMMENT
Malifua Security, employed by the Fun Center has been successful in
curtailing incidents and minimizing any disruptive effects by: treating teenagers
as well as adults with respect - enforcing posted rules of conduct - and because
they know how to relate to youngsters. By monitoring the Common Area within
visual observation Fun Center Security has alerted Mall Security and assisted
them, when called on, to maintain order - adhering to Center Management's
instructions that Mall Security is responsible for and has jurisdiction over all
matters occurring in the Common Area.
IT IS OUR JUDGMENT THAT THE NUMBER OF INCIDENTS INCLUDED IN OUR REPORT (of
which the majority occurred in the Common Area) PARALLEL THE GENERAL EXPERIENCE
OF THE ENTIRE MALL.
5(
L UnfvLL^U fun
Summary of Daily Security Reports, Month Of January, 1985
One incident - assisted in the arrest of a minor who apparently walked through
the conrnon area of the Mall intoxicated, and in possession of an alcoholic beverage.
Two incidents - minors evidently walked through the canton area of the Mall
during school days, but were denied access to the game room.
One incident - altercation in the conmon area of the Mall was headed off
because Fun Center security spotted trouble brewing and alerted Mall security.
One incident - shopper stumbled down Mall stairs sustaining injury and was
immediately aided when Game Room security alerted Mall security.
One incident - Disorderly conduct of teenagers, originating in 'Connon Area1 -
brought into 'Game Room'. Ejection by Security Guard ended disturbance.
WE WERE PLEASED TO PROVIDE SUPPORT AND ASSISTANCE IN INPORCING LOCAL ORDINANCES
AND REGULATIONS, PREVENTING A DISTURBANCE IN THE MALL 'CCMCN AREA1 , AND EXPEDITING
ASSISTANCE WHEN AN ACCIDENT WITH INJURY OCCURRED IN THE 'COttCN AREA1 .
Line Fran Rally Report
1. Incident In Fun Center.
?. Irciont In Mall eorjton »re«.3. Tv:« ircKent (j« key btlou).a. Fun Center security contacted Mill security.
5. Mall security contacted Fun Center security.6. Cirlabjd Police KparUent called.
CSZ OX Month
iHn
T-f
nXV
2 3 4 5 «
!
7 8
X
AX
Y
9 10
*H
n 12 13 11 15 16
Xfx
17 18 19 21
X
X
^
22
X|)
X
23 2«25 26 27
X
X
28 29 30 31
Key To Un« 3:
A. A sixteen year old minor walked through the common area of the Mall while apparently
intoxicated and in possession of alcohol. He was detained. Mall security was called
and the Carlsbad Police Department responded to the call and arrested the youth.
B. Minors refused entry to the Fun Center during school hours.
C. Fun Center security noted that a confrontation was brewing in the Cornnon Area of
the Mall. Mall security was advised and the potential fight was defused.
D. Fun Center security noticed a shopper stumble down the Mall steps, alerted Mall
security and immediate aid was given.
E. Disorderly conduct in Common Area; brought into Fun Center. Security guard ejected
the youngsters from Center, ending disturbance.
Sunmary of Daily Security Reports, Month Of February , 1985
Two incidents - of Arcade patrons using profanity.
One incident - where Mall Security requested assistance for
troublesome student in Connon Area/ aid was given.
One incident - loitering
One incident - fighting in Common Area . .
Summary: Total of 5 incidents - 3 in Common Area/2 in Arcade
LlflS. From Dally Report
1. Irtlitr.l In Fun Center.
?. Ircseent In lull coraon irti.l^_blt irclCtnt litt k«v beloj).«. Fun Center jtcurlly conUcled Kill security.b. Hill Mcu-ity contacted Fun Center jccurlty.
t>. UrUUd Police Beparlaenl called.
D_a£ Q£ Month
i
X
^
2 3 4 5 6 ^i
c
^
c 10 11 12 13 14 i;16
yF
V
n 18 19 20
Y]7
A
21 22 2]24 25 26 27 21 29 X Jl
Kcjr To Un* 3:
A) Use of profanity - guilty parties ejected.
B) Use of profanity - guilty parties ejected.
Loitering in Connon Area.
C) Responded to Mall Security request for assistance in Connon Area: aided in ejecting
troublesome student from Mall.
D) Arcade Security broke up fight between two youngsters in Connon Area; Mall Security
and Carlsbad Police called; Police ejected pair from Mall.
Summary of Daily Security Reports, Month Of March, 1985
One incident - involving a fight
Summary: -Total of one incident
Linfi. Fron Dally Report
1. Irctdcr.t In Tun Ctnttr.?. Ircieenl In Hilt coraon tret.
1^ !*:< ircKtnl (»« kt* t*lcu).». Fun Center Mcurltr ccnUcud Kill Mcurlty.">. Hill itcu-Uy cenucted Fun Ctnter jccurlly.
t>. Cirlibjd Pollc* CijarUtnl cillcd.
Dav Q£ Month
i 2 3 4 5 6 7 I c 10 11 12 13 14 15
XXA
16 11 IB 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 21 21 29 X 11
K«y To Un* 3:
A) Fight/in Fun Center - participants, ejected from Fun Center; renewed
confrontation in Common Area - Mall Security not imrediately available
- participants informed they were banned from Fun Center.
EL CAMINO REAL PLAZA
MALL CENSUS
An informal census was conducted of youngsters (not accompanied by
adults) present at EL CAMINO REAL PLAZA during the month of December,
1984 approximately QR& week a_f£ejL the Fjia Center closed
This is compared to a similar census during the third week of January,
February, March, and April.
The census is not purely scientific because it was not conducted at
a specific hour on each of the days, however, it was conducted during
each afternoon period.
1. PERIOD WHEN FUN CENTER WAS CLOSED - DECEMBER 1984 CENSUS:
Total days in census - 18
Total minors - 2,406
Daily average number
minors - ' 103
Congregating during this period generally occurred at:
(a) Cluster at fast food operations.
(b) At stairs between upper/lower level.
(c) Where phones were stationed.
(d) Varied - Sears, Penney's, Docktor's pet Center.
2. PERIOD WHEN FUN CENTER WAS IN OPERATION - JANUARY THRU APRIL, 1985:
January February March April
Total days in census - 7 6 67
Total minors - 332 318 358 354
Daily average number
minors - 47 53 60 51
Congregating during this period generally occurred at:
(a) Cluster at fast food operations.
(b) At stairs between upper/lower level.
(c) Where phones were stationed.
(d) Vicinity of Fun Center/stairs.
(d) Varied.
OBSERVATIONS
The population of teenagers, unaccompanied by adults/ at El Camino
Real appears to be linked most closely to the retailing and general
attraction of the mall.
Daily population of minors was at its peak during the normally
busiest Christmas Season — a period when the Fun Center was closed.
The daily population of minors during the sampling periods/ when
the Fun Center has been in operation, does not appear to have a direct
cause and effect relationship -- but rather is a reflection of the
universal attraction of malls referred to in enclosed publications.
Congregating appears to take place where minors gather to eat, to
use phones; where they can sit (by stairs) and the influence of the Fun
Center is minimal at best, particularly since Fun Center Security dis-
perses any excessive or unruly congregating in its immediate vicinity.
April 12, 1985
Mr. McDonald
c/o Woolworth's
2525 El Camino' Real
Carlsbad, CA 92008
Dear Sir:
The presence of the video arcade and its associated
clientele in Plaza Camino Real has not been detremental
to our business.
Sincerely,
O
Michael D. Pappas
Manager
Docktor Pet Center
Plaza Camino Real,
Carlsbad, CA
Mr. Bin McDonald March 26, 1985
o Woolworths
Flaza Camino Real
Mr. McDonald,
Regarding our telephone conversation of 3/25/85 as
to negetive effects of having the Woolworths "Fun Center":
I must aay that I feel very little, if any effect at this
end of the mall. It seems that the main objection some
people have is the "punks". The few that I have run into
seem quite decent. Those that do come into the store are
for the most part well behaved, polite, and willing to
pay cash. I can't ask for much more from my customers.
I therefore can pose no objection to your continued operation.
Paul A. Vehar, Mgr.
es/- a <- W</
March 25, 1985
Mary Cssler, Mayor
Anne Kulchin, City Councilor
Claude Lewis, City Councilor
Richard Chick, City Councilor
Mark Pettine, City Councilor
Deer Msyor Casler and City Councilors:
We wish to express our support for the continued operation of the
Fun Center at Plaza Camino Real, Carlsbad, California. The measures
they hsve implemented have shown positive results toward the rfductiori
of incidents and the improverent of supervision end control of the
disruptive element existing.
Sincerely,
STAFF REPORT
DATE: October 24, 1984
TO: Planning Commission
FROM: Land Use Planning Office
SUBJECT: CUP-234 - WOOLWORTH - Review of the Conditional Use
Permit for a video arcade business located in Plaza
Camino Real Shopping Center for compliance with the
conditions of approval.
I. RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the Planning Commission direct staff to
draw up documents for REVOCATION of CUP-234.
II. PROJECT BACKGROUND AND DISCUSSION
On September 14, 1983, the Planning Commission approved a
conditional use permit to allow operation of a video arcade on
the lower level of Plaza Camino Real. Operation of the arcade
was allowed subject to several conditions. Condition No. 4
(attached resolution) stated, in part:
"This conditional use permit shall be reviewed by the Land
Use Planning Manager on a yearly basis to determine if all
conditions of this permit have been met and that the use
does not have a significant detrimental impact on
surrounding properties or the public health and welfare.
...This permit may be revoked at anytime after a public
hearing, if it is found that the use has a significant
detrimental effect on surrounding land uses and the public's
health and welfare, or the conditions imposed herein have
not been met."
The arcade has now been in operation for one year. The
management of Plaza Camino Real is of the opinion that the arcade
patrons disturb the shopping public and, as a result, surrounding
businesses. It is apparent that groups of young people
congregate in front of the arcade. In addition, the Carlsbad
Chief of Police opposes any extension of the arcade's permit to
operate, as the number of juvenile arrests in this area have
increased significantly during this year.
Based on the recommendation of the Police Department, staff
recommends that Conditional Use Permit 234 be revoked on the
basis that the use has a significant detrimental impact on
surrounding land uses and on the public's health and welfare, in
violation of Condition No. 4. If, based upon the information
that has been submitted and any additional testimony received at
the public hearing, the Planning Commission concurs, staff will
bring back a resolution revoking this permit at your next
meetin g.
The arcade operator has submitted information identifying
possible alternatives to the revocation of the permit. This
information is attached.
Attachments
1. Location Map
2. Letter from Plaza Camino Real, dated August 31, 1984
3. Memo from Chief of Police, dated September 21, 1984
4. Memo from Officer Galloway, dated September 20, 1984
5. Planning Commission Resolution No. 2176, dated September 14,
1983
6. Information from R. Thomas Wood, Attorney for Woolworth's
PJK:ad
10/11/84
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c.\