Madison Police Correct In Wanting Violence And Binge Drinking From Mifflin Street Party To Be Shut Down

On May 1st I made my point of view very clear to readers concerning the future of the Mifflin Street Party.  

The drinking party that has been a yearly spectacle for this city, and a continuing embarrassment, must come to an end. Clearly there is no other reason for the crowd to assemble then to booze it up, create refuse, fill detox centers, needlessly cause city resources to be used, and create bedlam.

Today comes word the Madison Police Department recommends the party be shut down for good.  Based on the level of violence and far too much drinking, along with binge drinking, the department has come to the only conclusion that could be reached.

SHUT IT DOWN!

There will be many across the city who agree with the police.  In addition there will be the regulars who make up a loud vocal minority who will howl with outrage that such an event should never be closed down. 

However, in this time of economic angst for municipalities like Madison it is only reasonable to shut down a brawling drunken affair that serves only to drain taxpayer’s monies. 

During this year’s Mifflin Party police costs totaled more than $130,000, an increase of $43,000 from last year.  That is unacceptable.

In addition this party has become a nasty unwanted stain on our city.  Removing this embarrassment is a win for those who care about the image of Madison.

I am very heartened that Mayor Soglin agrees with the police recommendation.  

That is a long way from how Soglin viewed the matter just prior to this year’s party.

“Just when we thought there were no new ways of having a block party, we’ve found a new way,” Soglin said. “This is a rather different and much improved effort to celebrate spring.”

Thanks should be extended to the Madison Police for doing the right thing regarding this report.