Fort Lauderdale is stepping up enforcement in Himmarshee, a downtown-adjacent entertainment district, as city leaders consider stricter rules for businesses that operate late at night. Barricades and a light tower have been placed in the area, and the enforcement effort will bring additional patrols, including K-9 and mounted units, along with Florida Highway Patrol and federal agents, the city said. Officers will focus on underage drinking, overcrowding, parking-lot parties and bars suspected of serving minors. Police Chief William Schultz said officials have seen underage drinking, fights, disorderly conduct and large gatherings that pose risks to businesses, residents and visitors. “To the young people here, specifically to underage drinkers. You have been warned,” he said. Fire Rescue Chief Stephen Gollan said calls between midnight and 4 a.m. have risen significantly, with most involving people who have passed out. About 30% of those calls involve people ages 18 to 24, he said. Mayor Dean Trantalis said the City Commission is expected to consider ordinance changes the following week that would raise fines for alcohol-related violations and set new requirements for businesses seeking to operate late. Proposed standards would address security, alcohol safety, staff training and upkeep of areas around establishments. The city also plans to meet with Himmarshee business owners and ask Broward County schools to discuss the risks of underage drinking with students. Micah Harris, manager of Original Fat Cats, said he supports increased police presence, arguing that responsible customers should not be deterred. The enforcement push follows several shootings in the district, including one in December that sent five people to the hospital. In January, Fort Lauderdale banned open containers and outdoor drinking in its entertainment districts.