Item 3: Ordinance on Unruly Gatherings

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with an identified complainant, there were an additional 725 calls citywide related to noise where the complainant wished to remain anonymous. In addition to analyzing complaints, staff will monitor the frequency the civil penalties are assessed, to determine if this is a tool that is effective at addressing the problem of properties that are chronically hosting unruly gatherings. During the 2011-2012 school year, there were 22 properties where four or more complaints for loud parties were received during the Thursday through Saturday timeframe. This is a significant increase from the six properties reported during the 2010-2011 school year. It is believed that this strategy will contribute to a reduction in the frequency of unruly gatherings by holding both organizers and property owners accountable. Social host ordinances are now a common tool used to address this issue and have been enacted in over 150 cities and counties in 27 states. While not a “silver bullet” to what is a complex community problem, other communities have found social host ordinances to be an effective deterrent. Research conducted at 14 public universities in California revealed the largest decrease in off-campus binge drinking at those institutions that had aggressive enforcement programs that included social host ordinances coupled with strong media campaigns. This has also been the experience in St. Cloud, Minnesota, which recently implemented a similar ordinance and presented their findings at the 2011 International Town and Gown Association Conference attended by staff. Communications Plan When considering implementation of a social host ordinance, research of other jurisdictions has shown that education is a key component to success. A clear communication strategy will help residents and hosts better understand the ordinance and avoid the consequences of enforcement. The City of Eugene and the University of Oregon will work together similar to the outreach made to the area as new students arrive in the fall. A team of communications professionals from the City and University of Oregon will coordinate on communications goals, and identify audiences, key messages and communications methods. A primary focus would be using low- or no-cost news, social media, and face-to-face methods. In addition, information on the ordinance will be provided to other community residents and neighborhoods. RELATED CITY POLICIES This topic relates to the following:  Council Goal - Safe Community Vision: A community where people feel safe, valued and welcome, and increased downtown development, as well as support for small and local businesses.  Growth Management Policy 6 – Increase new housing density development while maintaining the character and livability of individual neighborhoods.  Envision Eugene Pillar – Protect, Repair and Enhance Neighborhood Livability S:\CMO\2013 Council Agendas\M130128\S1301283.doc