Queen’s University Principal Daniel Woolf has made his feelings on homecoming parties known — and Kingston Mayor Bryan Paterson has done the same.
In a lengthy blog post, Paterson referred to the unsanctioned street gatherings as “disrespectful and irresponsible.”
“We clearly are seeing a change in the way that these parties are taking place,” Paterson said. “This year the party started early on Saturday and it went all day. So, I think it calls for a different approach.”
That approach could mean introducing a ‘nuisance bylaw’, with police handing out fines on the spot to rowdy party-goers. A practice often applied in other university cities.
“So we’re constantly looking and comparing notes with other cities who are grappling with these same issues – about what are those best practices.”
Paterson says he’ll be in contact with school officials to discuss what changes need to be made, which could include cancelling Homecoming, but he admits that option isn’t likely. The Queen’s Alma-Mater Society (AMS) isn’t keen on that choice either.
“You strip the city from all the economic benefits that are associated with Homecoming while still having the same problem with student congregation,” Queen’s AMS Commissioner of Municipal Affairs said.
As for who will pay for police overtime costs, the mayor says he’ll be meeting with university officials to talk “money”.
Queen’s currently gives $100,000 to the city for these type of events, but Paterson says he isn’t sure if that amount will be enough for city coffers.