Business owners in downtown Edmonton are calling on authorities to address public safety concerns, emphasizing the financial burden of implementing extra security measures and the impact on customer trust.
Cheryll Watson, chair of the Downtown Revitalization Coalition, stressed that it should not solely be the responsibility of business owners to safeguard their premises against vandalism, break-ins, and security threats. She highlighted these challenges during a media briefing organized by her organization and the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce.
The gathering, which included business figures and MP Ruby Sahota, the federal secretary of state for combatting crime, aimed to delve into the issue of public safety in Edmonton and its repercussions on local businesses and economic progress.
While acknowledging some positive changes resulting from increased downtown patrols by Edmonton Police Services, Watson and local businesses emphasized the need for further assistance.
Leslie Boss, the proprietor of Crown & Ember, a salon near 102nd Avenue and 106th Street, disclosed that her establishment had been burglarized twice within the past year. Despite having security cameras, Boss highlighted the additional measures taken to ensure the safety of staff and clients, such as locking doors after hours.
Boss estimated spending approximately $2,000 on security cameras, door replacements, and stolen goods following the break-ins. She expressed concerns about escalating drug-related activities in the downtown area, affecting the clientele and operations of her business.
Andrea Nguyen, owner of Kumi Nails nearby, also recounted incidents of theft impacting her customers and business operations. Nguyen detailed a recent incident where a client’s vehicle was broken into during daylight hours, underscoring the increasing challenges faced by businesses in recent times.
MP Ruby Sahota stressed the importance of governments collaborating to address public safety issues while ensuring adequate resources for mental health, addiction support, and housing services. Doug Griffiths, president of the Edmonton Chamber of Commerce, echoed the need for addressing mental health, addiction, and homelessness issues while advocating for initiatives to attract more people to the downtown area.
Looking ahead, business owners like Boss expressed hope for enhanced police presence and increased support for individuals battling addiction and other difficulties to mitigate the prevailing challenges and enhance community well-being.