Ken Lund, licensed under Creative Commons
Mayors of Big 10 cities are talking about presenting a unified front in restrictions on tailgating.East Lansing Mayor Aaron Stephens and mayors of other Big Ten cities are trying to form a united front to ensure a safer football season.
In the Oct. 20 City Council meeting, Stephens described his conversation the previous Friday with some other Big Ten mayors. They brainstormed ways they can assess the risks and best protect their residents during this late fast-approaching football season.
Following the first meeting, MSU Athletic Director Bill Beekman issued a statement on game-day policies. Beekman encouraged fans to watch the games at home and forgo gatherings such as watch parties and tailgates. In addition, the Spartan marching band, cheer, and dance teams will not be participating in game-day events. MSU completely prohibits tailgating on campus, and both the MSU and East Lansing police will ensure public safety.
Stephens plans to unite all the conference’s mayors so they can present a unified message. While he said he was looking forward to the start of the football season on Oct. 24 for economic and entertainment reasons, East Lansing residents’ safety remains paramount.
East Lansing resident Trevor Carey echoed Stephens’ comments. He said that although he would love to be able to attend a game at Spartan Stadium, he recognizes the importance of the precautions. Carey said that with proper safety measures, Big Ten fans can attend games again, but the league must first demonstrate its ability to operate without spreading the coronavirus. Carey said he looks forward to the day fans can safely be welcomed back to Spartan Stadium.