Ravers invited to City Hall

Officials ponder review of bylaws governing non-licensed parties

Publication title: Edmonton Sun (CN AB)
Publication date: April 5, 2000
Document type: News
Article author: Maria Mcclintock
Transcribed by: MW



Ravers and organizers of the controversial non-alcoholic teen dance parties are expected to line up to speak at a city committee meeting today.

Although only one person registered to speak to the executive committee as of late yesterday, Coun. Michael Phair said he’s had calls from several people who plan to show up.

At issue is a report about the city’s ballroom-dancing bylaw and how the regulations deal with dance halls.

The report states there are no planned changes to the bylaw regarding licensed establishments but that review is under way for non-licensed parties.

“The research being conducted will specifically include some focus on the issues surrounding youth clubs, all-night dances, segregation of liquor licensing from areas licensed for youth activities…” the report says.

Several months ago, Phair asked the administration to look at whether the location of teen parties could be regulated.

His request came after getting calls from concerned parents who learned their teenagers were attending non-licensed parties being held in the same building as bars.

But as a result of a weekend rave held at the city’s Northlands Sportex, in which eight teens collapsed, Phair wants the city to look at better rules for such parties.

“We need to ensure the safety of people who attend these and that they are in a safe environment,” said Phair, who doesn’t want an outright ban of the popular events.

“But we don’t have virtually anything in place. We have no guidelines.”

It may be a matter of making changes to city licensing requirements or bylaws, Phair added.

Coun. Larry Langley said the city must be able to have some say in how such parties are run if city facilities are used.

“Any time you have that many people paying a hefty price (to attend), you’re running a business and there should be a way to control these patrons,” said Langley.

But Coun. Robert Noce cautioned people from overreacting.

“I suspect many of the ravers are good people and go to raves with the intention of simply dancing… I’m not convinced yet that we need to do something.”



Photo Caption: Michael Phair (No guidelines)