Mayor Dave Cieslewicz and the city of Madison called last Halloween's lack of tear gas, violence and uncontrollable crowds a great ""success,"" and hopes to maintain these standards for celebrations in the future.
Last year the Madison tradition underwent controversial changes, including an admission fee and gated entrances. George Twigg, spokesperson for Cieslewicz, said he is pleased with the changes initiated.
""It's the first Halloween in a number of years that you didn't see a finale with tear gas,"" Twigg said. ""We're simply hoping to build on that success and keep it a fun but peaceful event in the years to come.""
Twigg said the mayor would like to continue the ticketing system and live entertainment. The city plans to work with Frank Productions to ensure that Halloween continues to be a fun and safe event.
Tom Wangard, organizer of the Halloween Action Committee, also felt that Halloween 2006 was a success. Still, he said the HAC is focused on targeting three main goals for next year's event—free admission for UW students, sponsorship and a major headlining act.
""A ton of people showed up and the night ended peacefully, without the disturbances we have seen in the past years,"" Wangard said.
Twigg said free admission for UW-Madison students will be considered, but some have concerns with creating an equity issue for MATC students or college-aged kids who do not have the means to be a student.
Hawk Schenkel, owner of Hawk's Bar and Grill on State Street, said he supports the ticketing system and gating off the street.
""As far as my bar business is concerned I don't need 100,000 people on the street,"" Schenkel said. ""If there are 20,000 people on the street, I'm probably OK.""
Despite all the positive elements stemming from last year's Halloween, Schenkel said he would like to see an improved parking system. He said the parking was gated off too early last year and hurt day business.
While parking was not specifically noted in the mayor's preliminary plans, incorporating more live music was. The city hired Frank Productions who, according to Wangard, have worked with some big names such as Red Hot Chili Peppers, Dave Matthews Band, The Rolling Stones and Pink Floyd.
""I think it's a good direction to take the planning away from the city and into the hands of a professional group,"" Wangard said. ""I think we can get a lot more done and make the event more tailored for UW students.""
Mary Carbine, executive director of the Central Business Improvement District, said she is looking forward to next year. Carbine said she thought having a professional company organizing the entertainment would improve the event. She would also like to make sure access to business is maintained this year.
""I think it's really important we build on last year's success. There was reduction in property damage and arrests, and there weren't serious incidents with people getting hurt,"" Carbine said. ""The crowds were still there and they had a good time.""
