Strategies discussed to deal with future Guelph Homecoming events

The Joint Operations Team has identified and, in some cases, has already begun implementing strategies for future events. These include:

• Discussions with neighbouring cities and universities in Waterloo, Hamilton, and London that are experiencing similar challenges.
• Pre- and post-event waste management plans will be put in place to deal more effectively with litter, street sweeping, and property standards issues.
• The University is enhancing communications underlining the importance of Gryphon values and longstanding connections with the wider community.
• The City and University will work together to enhance communications related to safety and education.
• Successful existing initiatives such as Safe Semester, pre-visits to properties with previous violations, and the party registration program will be continued and built upon.

READ MORE: ‘It’s unacceptable’: Guelph’s mayor sounds off on homecoming hooligans

“Homecoming is a time of celebration and enjoyment on the University of Guelph campus and in the Guelph community,” said University of Guelph President Franco Vaccarino in a statement last month. “Unfortunately, this weekend there were some situations where U of G students and others behaved inappropriately, with significant negative impact on members of our community. I would like to personally, and on behalf of the University, apologize to any members of the Guelph community who were affected negatively.”

Guthrie also added he’s pleased that, for the first time, the City’s Bylaw Division is pursuing those responsible for organizing and sponsoring large parties. He says the offenders will be invoiced to recover costs for things such as policing, bylaw, waste collection, road closures, and cleanup.