EUGENE — University of Oregon student leaders called for a large, young turnout at a Eugene City Council meeting Monday night to object to a proposed city crackdown on rowdy parties,
The Eugene Register-Guard reported the council would hold a public hearing on what’s called a “social host ordinance" aimed at making party organizers accountable when gatherings get out of hand. Fines could range from about $200 to a maximum of $1,000.
Students say that’s heavy-handed, and current laws give police enough authority.
Eugene police say such ordinances are linked to decreases in off-campus binge drinking in California.
City officials say that from 2006 to 2010, the number of noise, disorderly conduct and alcohol-related violations around the campus increased by 55 percent.
The council plans to vote next year.