A group of residents in central Edmonton are expressing concerns about the easy accessibility of weapons, particularly switchblade knives and other edged weapons, in convenience stores in the Alberta Avenue area. Former city councillor Allan Bolstad is among those who are troubled by the availability of these weapons, which he believes are designed to kill people. He brought his concerns to Arts on the Ave executive director Christy Morin, who decided to test how easy it was to purchase these weapons by buying two knives from a corner store. Morin and several community leagues in central Edmonton are worried about the implications of such easy access to knives, especially in areas with vulnerable populations dealing with homelessness and addiction.
The easy accessibility of knives is not limited to one street or neighborhood in central Edmonton. Nunu Desalgne, a store owner along 107th Avenue, has witnessed the growing problem of knife violence in her community, particularly after a fatal stabbing incident that happened near her business in December. Desalgne, a mother of three, is concerned about the safety of her children and the overall security of the community. She, along with other business owners, feels that there needs to be a change to address the prevalence of knives in the area. They acknowledge the efforts of the police but believe that citizens also need to come together to address this issue collectively.
Central Edmonton community leagues, led by Arts on the Ave and the Alberta Avenue Community League, are advocating for restrictions on the sale of knives in corner stores in order to curb violence in their area. They are looking to change the bylaw regarding which stores are allowed to sell these weapons. Bolstad, a former city councillor, believes that the city has the legislative tools to regulate the sale of knives through business license rules. While an outright ban would fall under federal jurisdiction, restricting where knives can be sold could be a good first step at the local level to address the issue at hand.
The group is planning to bring their concerns to a city council meeting to be discussed at an urban planning committee. Ward Metis councillor Ashley Salvador has heard from residents and is interested in learning more about what tools the city has at its disposal to address the sale of knives at convenience stores. She recognizes the desire within the community to address this issue and is open to exploring opportunities within the city’s control to be responsive to these concerns. The group’s meeting to discuss next steps and the upcoming city council meeting signal a growing awareness of the issue and a willingness to take action to ensure the safety and well-being of Edmonton residents.
In light of the concerns raised by residents in central Edmonton regarding the accessibility of knives, particularly in convenience stores, city officials are considering potential restrictions to address the issue. Business owners and community members are advocating for changes to the bylaw to regulate the sale of knives, especially in areas with vulnerable populations. The community leagues are looking to collaborate with city council and other stakeholders to implement measures that can protect the community and prevent violence involving knives. Ultimately, the goal is to create a safer environment for all Edmonton residents by addressing the easy accessibility of potentially dangerous weapons in the area.
The issue of knife violence and the accessibility of weapons in central Edmonton has gained attention from residents, community organizations, and city officials. The call for restrictions on the sale of knives in convenience stores is part of a broader effort to address safety concerns and prevent incidents of violence in the community. By working together and engaging in dialogue with city council, residents hope to bring about meaningful change that will enhance public safety and security in central Edmonton. The willingness of community members, business owners, and city officials to collaborate on this issue reflects a shared commitment to creating a safe and secure environment for all residents.
