Drink Spiking Education and Prevention Council Subcommittee

Start Date: Announced at the April 24, 2025 Work Study Session

Chair:  Councilmember Randy Keating

Subcommittee Members: Vice Mayor Doreen Garlid and Councilmember Berdetta Hodge

Purpose: The purpose of this subcommittee is to explore the issue of drink spiking in bars, restaurants, and nightlife environments, aiming to foster safer drinking environments, strengthen harm reduction strategies, and promote public health initiatives focused on responsible consumption.

Background:  Tempe is home to a historically vibrant nightlife scene, centered around the iconic Mill Avenue and extending beyond, with a thriving bar, restaurant, festival, and brewery culture. Yet, like many cities with popular entertainment districts, drink spiking remains a serious and often underreported public safety issue.  A recent survey from a Top 10 public university found that 77% of students surveyed had either been drugged or knew someone who had (KnoNap, 2024). Additional research from Anglia Ruskin University revealed that only one in ten drink spiking incidents are reported to law enforcement.  To promote a safer nightlife environment, Councilmember Keating collaborates with the Tempe Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Tempe Authority, Arizona State University, Tempe Police, and other community partners. The subcommittee assesses the prevalence of drink spiking and recommends targeted public health policy initiatives to help address the issue. 

Public Meeting Information:  

The Council Subcommittee on Drink Spiking Education & Prevention collected feedback at a public meeting on Wednesday, Dec. 10, 2025 at 6 p.m. at the Tempe Public Library, 3500 S. Rural Road. Additionally, a survey was available online at tempe.gov/Forum from Dec. 1-17, 2025. 

A draft ordinance is advancing to a Public Hearing on Jan. 22.   Information on how to participate in City Council meetings can be found here.

Questions: Council Assistant: Keaton Hill 480-350-8463

Jan. 26, 2026, Regular Council Meeting materials - Frist Read (Item 8CB)

Jan. 26, 2026 Regular Council Meeting Video

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