Dear Community Members,
I am thrilled to share incredible news with you. On October 2, City Council voted unanimously in favor of creating a new business licensing class for convenience stores that will eliminate the sale of knives and blades. This groundbreaking decision is a first for any city in Canada, and it highlights the national significance of the work we’ve done together to prioritize the safety of our neighborhoods.
This policy, which will be implemented through the City of Edmonton’s business licensing staff, police officers, and the Edmonton Police Service, is a direct result of our community’s tireless advocacy. While it will take time to fully implement, the support from Council and City staff is a testament to what we can achieve when we come together.
I want to express my deepest gratitude to each of you for your letters, phone calls, and unwavering commitment to this cause. Your efforts have paved the way for Edmonton to lead by example, setting a new standard for safety in communities across the country.
We will keep you updated on upcoming opportunities to celebrate this achievement, and I encourage you to watch the news coverage of this historic moment.
Thank you again for standing with us and for your dedication to making our city safer for all.
Warm regards,
Christy Morin, Executive Director
Arts on the Ave
Such great news! I also give KUDOS to Alan Bolstad with the Alberta Avenue Community League, who did much of the legwork and advocacy on initiating this movement towards safer community.
A celebration moment to be sure!