Last weekend was not as rambunctious as expected. From what we can see in the lack of police reports and scanner activity, the notorious Not Fred Fest was much tamer than what happened in 2024.

There were no stabbings, fires or shootings. Some inebriation did occur, but that is to be expected when large groups of 20-somethings gather to party.

Leadership in the village deserves credit for its actions. From the start, Mayor Michael Ferguson and the trustees were proactive in trying to take a lot of the troubles out of the unofficial weekend event that normally occurs on the first weekend in May. Most of the problems, in the past, have revolved around Eagle, White and Canadaway streets.

But this year appeared a bit more serene. Some of that could be tied to cooler temperatures and damp conditions from the weekend. In addition, there were more law enforcement involved.

Village Chief David Price noted there would be “a very high police presence in this village” to watch over the happenings. In fact, there was even a checkpoint on Central Avenue at one point.

In the end, preparations made a huge difference in keeping the peace. That’s a win for residents.

But the bigger picture is this: what Price did was what is referred to as mutual aid. He called in assistance for an event that was too big for his force alone to handle.

It was regional policing. We have come to expect this type of cooperation during these situations.

It begs the question: if units can work together, why do there need to be borders? We know the benefits that have come from working as one.

Last week’s Not Fred Fest successes by law enforcement was a regional policing effort. It’s time to tear down the 19th century borders when it comes to this line of thinking.

One north county department, made up of Dunkirk, Fredonia and even University Police, would better serve this area that is shrinking in population while facing financial woe. Based on recent mammoth tax hikes in both the city and village, we know the current model is becoming far too costly.