The small town of Wolfville, Nova Scotia, home to Acadia University, is dealing with rowdy behavior from its population of university students. In response to these challenges, the town received a draft study drawing lessons from the inquiry that investigated the 2020 Nova Scotia mass shooting. The study, conducted by criminology professor Stephen Schneider, suggests exploring alternatives to the RCMP in addressing community safety issues. The Mass Casualty Commission found failures in how the RCMP responded to the killings and issued 130 recommendations to improve public safety, some of which involve lessening the reliance on police for certain calls for help.
The study highlights the need to consider alternative approaches that address the root causes of crime and violence, rather than relying solely on reactive law enforcement measures. In Wolfville, residents have complained about students engaging in disruptive behavior such as loud parties, public drunkenness, vandalism, and harassment fueled by excessive drinking. Alcohol-related incidents are common in the town, with one-third of RCMP calls being related to alcohol. The study also notes the heightened risk of sexualized violence in the community, particularly among post-secondary students who have higher rates of such incidents.
Schneider’s report recommends implementing a community safety and wellness model in Wolfville as a potential solution to the issues posed by disorderly students. The proposed pilot project would be led by an independent non-profit organization and include various working groups focused on crime prevention, social development, and community navigation. The town has already taken steps to address high-risk events and support mental health initiatives for students, resulting in a decline in nuisance party issues and an improved relationship between the town and the university. The report suggests that the town’s approach could serve as a model for other college towns facing similar challenges.
The study discusses the intense pressures faced by post-secondary students, exacerbated by factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic, social media, economic issues, mental health challenges, and the climate crisis. These factors contribute to a dystopian outlook on the future among young people and are linked to an increase in anxiety, depression, and risky behaviors. By adopting a community-based approach to addressing safety and wellness, the town of Wolfville aims to provide support and resources that address the underlying causes of disruptive behavior among students, rather than solely relying on law enforcement responses.
The town of Wolfville has been proactive in addressing the challenges posed by student behavior, establishing committees to manage high-risk events and implementing harm reduction strategies. The relationship between the town and Acadia University has improved, with a focus on mental health support and efforts to combat sexualized violence. The proposed pilot project aligns with the town’s commitment to community safety and wellness, aiming to create a more holistic and sustainable approach to addressing the social issues faced by the town. Town council is awaiting a final report from Schneider before taking any action on implementing the proposed model. Ultimately, the study suggests that a community-led approach to public safety may offer a more effective and proactive response to the complex social issues present in Wolfville.
