Homecoming celebrations in Waterloo had a different feel this year, with police noting a decrease in major gatherings and a similar number of citations compared to the previous year. Inspector Tanya Klingenberg, in charge of the Waterloo Regional Police Service’s emergency services and public safety branch, disclosed that 104 charges were issued during this year’s homecoming events, slightly up from the 101 charges in 2024.
Significantly, there were no large street congregations this year, a notable shift credited to the proactive vigilance and enforcement efforts of the WRPS, supported by the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) and the City of Waterloo by-law team, as stated by Klingenberg in a message to CBC News. In 2018, over 14,000 individuals gathered on Ezra Avenue for homecoming festivities, prompting collaborative efforts by the city, police, and universities to deter unsanctioned parties. Measures included erecting fencing along Ezra Avenue, implementing special noise regulations, and instituting a preventive strategy to maintain public order.
Recently, law enforcement unveiled the outcomes of the annual Safe Semester initiative, focusing on the university precinct in Waterloo during the fall semester running from August 28 to September 26. A total of 760 charges were enforced during this period, encompassing various violations under acts like the Highway Traffic Act, Criminal Code, Liquor Licence and Control Act, Trespass to Property Act, Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, as well as bylaw infractions.
Furthermore, during the homecoming-related functions from September 26 to September 28, an extra 104 charges were imposed, including offenses related to the Highway Traffic Act, Liquor Licence Control Act, and Criminal Code. Although Project Safe Semester concluded, the Waterloo Regional Police assured continued proactive enforcement in the university district and school zones to uphold public safety.
Conversely, Guelph witnessed a sizable street celebration last Saturday, attracting over 10,000 attendees at its peak, prompting street closures and police interventions. Despite the large turnout, authorities reported no major incidents, although they issued numerous tickets under the Liquor Licence Act and responded to multiple noise complaints. Notably, an incident involving the discharge of a noxious substance resulted in three individuals receiving medical attention, with an ongoing investigation into the matter.
Across Ontario, other police services encountered similar unsanctioned homecoming events without significant disruptions. London and Hamilton, for instance, saw gatherings of thousands near universities but reported no major issues or nuisance parties. As Kingston gears up for upcoming homecoming festivities, precautions are being taken to ensure safety, with a reminder of the university district safety initiative in effect during the event period.
In Kingston, previous years have seen massive homecoming gatherings, yet recent events have been marked by smaller, controlled gatherings. A “fauxcoming” celebration held later saw well-mannered student gatherings, with minimal disruptions to the community. Police and bylaw officials will remain vigilant during the upcoming homecoming period to maintain order and safety.