Hereford City Commission passes ordinance restricting residency of sex offenders near children’s areas

In a unanimous vote on Monday, the Hereford City Commission passed a new ordinance aimed at protecting children by restricting where certain registered sex offenders can live within city limits.

The newly adopted measure prohibits individuals who are required to register as sex offenders—specifically those whose offenses involved victims under the age of 17—from residing within 2,000 feet of places where children commonly gather. These locations include schools, parks, playgrounds, daycare centers, swimming pools, and other similar public areas.

“This is about putting the safety and wellbeing of our children first,” said a city official. “The ordinance is a proactive step to help prevent potential risks and give families peace of mind.”

Under the ordinance, individuals currently living within the newly designated restricted zones will not be forced to relocate. These residents will be “grandfathered in,” meaning they can remain at their current addresses. However, if they choose to move, they will be required to find housing outside the protected zones. Similarly, registered sex offenders moving to Hereford in the future must comply with the new distance restrictions.

City leaders say the move is part of a broader effort to improve community safety and reflect the concerns of local residents. The commission cited public input and research on best practices from other cities when shaping the policy.

Critics of such ordinances in other cities have raised concerns about potential unintended consequences, such as housing shortages or pushing individuals into homelessness. However, Hereford officials emphasized that the goal is not to punish, but to prioritize community safety while remaining within legal and constitutional bounds.

“We understand this is a sensitive issue,” said another official. “But we have a responsibility to protect our most vulnerable population—our children.”

The ordinance goes into effect immediately, with enforcement beginning once affected individuals and property owners are notified.

City officials said they will continue to monitor the policy's impact and remain open to adjustments if necessary.