I want to thank UW students. This weekend's Halloween celebrations on State Street were peaceful and fun. Arrests were down by more than half, the level of serious over-consumption of alcohol was noticeably reduced and we recovered some of the costs through the $5 tickets.
As a result, we took a big step toward rebuilding public support for this event for years to come. Throughout the debate about our plan to gate and ticket the event, the dominant student view was a responsible one.
In numerous columns and editorials in this newspaper, in the cooperation we received from the Greek system, and in the thoughtful turn around from the Halloween Action Committee, students expressed their desire to maintain the Madison tradition of having a great time but in a way that was respectful of their fellow citizens.
I know that students were as tired of hearing me say that we needed to consider ending the event as I was of saying it. This year I'm happy to say instead that I'm looking forward to next year.
Dave Cieslewicz
Madison Mayor
