09-27-06 Community & Economic Development

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Health and Public Safety Committee Meeting of September 27, 2006 Page 4 that she will wank hard for students who live in her District and asked them for their help in making this area of the city safe for all residents and visitors. Council Member Kelly stated that the Council was "preaching to the choir", noting that he was very impressed with the students presentations. Problems continue to exist, and too many students party so hard that they never see the game. Notre Dame Student Body President Lizzi Shappell stated that she agrees with many of the comments made today, and stressed that they are not condoning underage drinking or unruly behavior. In response to questions from the Council Attorney, Bill Andrichik, Student Body Vice-President stated that he is a Resident Assistant (RA) in Stanford who enforces the rules in the dorm. Such programs as "Pillars" and "Flip-Side" provide positive outlets for socializing; noting that 35% of the freshman students who enter Notre Dame have never had an alcoholic beverage. He stated that the University banned hard-liquor on campus several years ago. As an RA they use a "peer approach" and review "high risk drinking situations" with students so that they have responsible outlets and alternatives. Notre Dame Student Body President Lizzi Shappell added that they participate in activities during the "Alcohol Abuse Awareness Week" and that the University has an Office on Alcohol and Drug Education, with Pillars being the largest one in the United States. Dr. Varner thanked the students for coming and sharing their thoughts and opinions; and thanked the members of the South Bend Police Department for all of their efforts. He suggested that the student leaders approach Turtle Creek Apartment management and present a similar presentation to them, He found today's discussion very informative, Council Member AI "Buddy" Kirsits thanked the students for taking the time to share their concerns with the Council. He stated that "they are doing what they were elected to do". He believes that the ordinance is working, noting that since the 1970's there have been slum landlords with which the City has had to deal. He noted that he was a Battalion Chief an the South Bend Fire Department and that there is a contract with the University to provide services on home football games. Many paramedics desire not to work such weekends because of the drunk students which range any where from "the belligerent drunk to the happy drunk'". He suggested that students who are taken to the emergency room on home football weekends should be required to come back on the next weekend to see how serious the alcohol problems are.