6th Ward: It is okay to say no to Northwestern

As most of you know, Northwestern is asking the City of Evanston to allow 6 single day events and a 7^th multi-day event not to exceed 7 days in duration in the U2 University Athletic Facilities District. The proposal would be a pilot program that would expire December 31, 2021.

Northwestern has historically relied on a culture of deference from Evanston’s elected officials. The burden and inconvenience of Northwestern events is shouldered by property tax paying homeowners and businesses. If Northwestern wants to expand their event schedule, let’s have that discussion in the context of a more equitable arrangement between the City of Evanston and the university. Let’s talk about ownership of Lincoln Street Beach. Let’s talk about the burdens that the university puts on our police, fire and public works resources. And, yes, let’s talk about a legitimate payment in lieu of taxes.

Until that’s the discussion, it is ok to say no to Northwestern.