As you may be aware, there is an event called the “DIY Street Party” planned for Centennial Square on Friday, April 22nd that has been posted on Facebook. The event organizers have invited 8,400 people, and 3,200 have posted that that they plan to attend. This event has not yet been approved by the City, as no permit application was made. As a result, there is no site security plan, which is required to ensure everyone’s safety. There are no plans for washroom facilities, first aid, refreshments, or traffic control. The event organizers have no insurance and are directly liable for any costs incurred should anyone be hurt or any property damaged during this event. Additional staffing costs to ensure public safety, which are borne by the City and include the costs of policing the event, will also become the responsibility of the organizers.

We are working with local business owners in anticipation of this event. Some planned activities, including the use of an amplified speaker to play music, will likely interfere with the rights of other people in the downtown area, including a school musical being performed in the MacPherson Theatre.

Please talk to your family and friends to see if they plan to attend this event. If they are, please remind them that the downtown area exists for everyone to enjoy safely – our community has rules in place to ensure respect for everyone’s interests, and everyone has a part to play in community safety and respect for others.