Huntsville, AL, October 7, 2025
News Summary
In response to rising violence, including four shootings in five months, the Huntsville Housing Authority has implemented a curfew at the L.R. Patton Community. The curfew, effective since June, requires residents to remain indoors during specified hours. HHA Executive Director Antonio McGinnis is taking steps to ensure safety, considering a ban on non-residents. Despite some disapproval, many residents feel the curfew has improved safety and reduced disturbances in the area. The authority aims to restore community unity and engagement while providing employment resources to combat poverty.
Huntsville Housing Authority Implements Curfew Amid Rising Violence at L.R. Patton Community
The L.R. Patton Community, managed by the Huntsville Housing Authority (HHA), has enforced a curfew in response to a notable increase in violence, including four shootings within a span of five months. The most recent incident did not involve any residents, prompting HHA Executive Director Antonio McGinnis to take further steps to maintain safety in the area, such as considering a ban on non-residents accessing the property. McGinnis stressed the importance of accountability for outside individuals who contribute to the rise in crime.
According to McGinnis, a significant factor contributing to the violence is the lack of community support and engagement among residents. Historically, families within the community used to support each other, but this sense of unity has diminished over time. As one of the largest landlords in Huntsville, HHA manages approximately 1,400 housing units and serves over 1,900 families participating in the Section 8 program, with nearly 700 families currently on the waiting list for housing. The average income for HHA residents is around $15,000, aligning closely with the poverty line, indicating that many residents are employed and striving for better livelihoods.
In an effort to improve the situation, HHA organizes monthly job fairs and programs aimed at helping residents overcome generational poverty. Their self-sufficiency program currently engages about 200 participants, assisting them in saving money and transitioning out of public housing.
Since the introduction of the curfew in June, which mandates residents remain indoors from 9 PM to 6 AM during weekdays and from 10 PM to 6 AM on weekends, there have been restrictions on outdoor areas like porches, balconies, courtyards, parking lots, and common areas. Exceptions to the curfew are permitted for work-related situations and emergencies. HHA leaders report that the curfew has led to a quieter environment, improved safety for residents, and a reduction in disturbances. Despite some residents expressing disapproval, the majority appreciate the curfew’s positive impact on safety.
Past events underscore the urgency of these measures, as a physical altercation during a community event hosted by HHA resulted in two children being injured by gunfire. McGinnis noted that the curfew has positively influenced residents’ perceptions of safety. Huntsville City Councilwoman Michelle Watkins indicated that crime issues often stem from non-residents entering the area, corroborating the community’s concerns about outside influences.
In light of the ongoing safety challenges, the curfew and potential restrictions on non-residents may play a crucial role in restoring safety and promoting a more supportive residential environment at L.R. Patton Community.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the recent curfew implemented by the Huntsville Housing Authority?
The current curfew, implemented since June, requires residents to stay indoors from 9 PM to 6 AM on weekdays and from 10 PM to 6 AM on weekends.
What areas are affected by the curfew?
The curfew includes restrictions on outdoor areas such as porches, balconies, courtyards, parking lots, and common areas.
Are there exceptions to the curfew?
Exceptions to the curfew are made for work-related situations and emergencies.
How many shootings have occurred in the L.R. Patton Community?
The L.R. Patton Community has experienced increased violence, with four shootings occurring in five months.
What actions is HHA considering to address the violence?
Executive Director Antonio McGinnis is considering a ban on non-residents accessing the property to mitigate violence.
What is the average income of HHA residents?
The average income for HHA residents is approximately $15,000, which is at the poverty line.
How does the curfew affect residents’ perception of safety?
McGinnis remarked that the curfew has positively affected residents’ perceptions of safety.
Key Features of Huntsville Housing Authority’s Measures
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Curfew Time | Weekdays: 9 PM to 6 AM; Weekends: 10 PM to 6 AM |
| Restrictions | Outdoor areas including porches, balconies, courtyards, parking lots, and common areas |
| Incidents Recorded | Four shootings in five months, with one recent incident not involving residents |
| Housing Units Managed | Approximately 1,400 housing units |
| Families in Section 8 Program | Over 1,900 families |
| Families on Waiting List | Nearly 700 families |
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Additional Resources
- WAFF 48 News: Huntsville Housing Authority Executive Director Plans to Turn Things Around
- Google Search: Huntsville Housing Authority
- WHNT News: All Residents within Huntsville Housing Authority Will Now Face a Curfew
- Wikipedia: Public Housing
- Yellowhammer News: Huntsville Housing Authority May Extend Curfew
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Urban Society
- WAAY TV: Huntsville Housing Authority Considers Extending Curfew
- Google News: Huntsville Housing Authority
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTSVILLE WRITER
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