'Don't come here': Kingston, Ont., officials warn potential homecoming partygoers

Officials in Kingston, Ont., have issued a stark warning to partygoers ready to flock to the city for Queen's University's annual homecoming celebrations as they hope to avoid a repeat of the illegal gatherings over the Labour Day weekend.

In a video statement Thursday, Mayor Bryan Paterson told anyone looking to come to the city with the intention of attending a large, unsanctioned party:"Don't come here."

"Our feeling is that everyone knows what those rules are and so if those rules are broken, then fines and penalties will be issued right away," Paterson later told CBC, calling what happened last month"very disrespectful to the surrounding neighborhood and residents."

"We are prepared for whatever may come."

Paterson said people can expect a heavy presence of police and bylaw officers this weekend.

Kingston police also issued a statement Friday saying theywould use video monitoringto identify individuals breaking the law.

• Kingston, Ont., partygoers could now face $2K fine, public shaming
• Kingston Police dismayed by large unruly parties continuing over the weekend

Last month, move-in weekend turned into illegal parties in the university district asKingston police and bylaw issued 140 charges and finestotalling more than $15,000.

In response, the City of Kingston issued an emergency orderto hike the fine from $500 to 2,000 for anyone who attendsa gathering above the provincial limitof 25 people inside, and 100 people outside. The order remains in effect this weekend for homecoming celebrations.

Hospital increasing emergency department staff

Paterson saidsmaller parties are fine for those wishing to socialize andhe sympathizes with those who may feel like they're missing out on the university experience because of pandemic rules.

He also believes most students are considerate and respectful of the rules, but felt it necessary to issue a reminder after hearing reports of invitations being handed out tolarge homecoming gatherings.

Queen's University'sPrincipal Patrick Deanereleased his own video message Fridayasking students to act responsibly. He said university and bylaw staff have been personally going to student residences to remindpeople of the rules.

"Reckless actions will have serious and significant consequences," Deane said, including the "overburdening of essential services."

In a statement, the Kingston Health Sciences Centre said it plans tohave more emergency department staff working this weekend in anticipation of parties getting out of control. There are already extremely high patient volumes, though, and hospital officials said they hope anyone planning to attend a large gathering to "rethink" their plans.