Speed Street Festival Not Declared an “Extraordinary Event”

CHARLOTTE, NC – The three-day Speed Street Festival wrapped up Saturday night.

The city decided not to declare it an extraordinary event for the first time in several years.

That ordinance gives police more power to search people on the streets.

The change comes as Charlotte City Council considers repealing it.

Critics say the existing ordinance is too broad and can lead to profiling, while supporters argue these extra security measures are needed to keep people safe.

City Council is not expected to vote until June.

At the same time they’ll also consider a new proposal that would give police authority to search people at events with more than 50 people.