The Problem Properties Task Force raided two houses in University Heights this weekend in order to break up large and potentially dangerous parties. Multiple UB students were arrested on charges ranging from distributing alcohol to minors to violating fire safety codes. While the students may not be happy being targeted, it is in the best interest of everyone to encourage safety and responsibility for all residents while improving the living quality of the Heights.
The Task Force was created last year, initially designed to identify landlords with housing violations. The group, comprised of representatives from a diverse collection of enforcement and advocacy groups, is focusing its efforts this year on cracking down on underage drinking. UB is also contributing to the solution - a number of university members as well as a collection of students living in University Heights are active within the Task Force.
The Task Force's main goal is to help rowdy students to be more responsible. The group is not going out of its way to stop students from drinking, but is actually preventing potentially volatile situations. Laws concerning fire safety and illegal alcohol distribution are effective only when they are enforced, and students need to be reminded to heed warnings, even if it means legal ramifications.
The only part of the Task Force that does not fit is the narcotic unit. Many officers are moved around and are already in the area, but the drug problem that exists in the Heights pales in comparison to those in other locations - specifically the East Side - of Buffalo. Drug issues should be addressed, but Heights residents should not be the primary targets.
There are two larger issues in play. First, safety is on everyone's mind, according to Toby Shapiro, the coordinator of parent and off-campus student services. Large parties are unsafe for many reasons, and many students are unaware of the dangers, especially regarding building and fire safety. Not only is a mass of students a fire hazard, but also the antiquated attics can be unsuitable for holding an excess of people.
The issues within the Heights may seem blown out of proportion to members of the community and at time, to members of The Spectrum editorial board. The Spectrum feels it is a relatively small group of people that drag down the reputation of an eclectic community. At the same time, that group makes it difficult for community members to raise families and go on with daily life in the area. And yes, designating an entire force to monitor the area may seem to "cramp the style" of college students, who generally like to party, but to ensure quality of life for students and residents alike, enforcement is a necessity.
It is ridiculous that students who are living on their own in the Heights need to be reminded of legal and safety issues, but a slightly modified Task Force can be an effective tool for enforcement, especially if involved students help officers better understand the mentality of college students.
The vibrancy of the University Heights region is related to the health of the university as a whole. When students are breaking the law and being irresponsible, it reflects poorly on both the school and the area. The Problem Properties Task Force is a valuable group that still needs some refinement, but ultimately is a program that can work. Students must be aware and supportive of the Task Force; those targeted will hopefully become more responsible because of it.
Photo: Courtesy of Laron Fomby
