Winnipeg Businesses Urge Government Action Against Rising Drug Use and Vandalism
Portage Avenue businesses say governments must address rise in open drug use, vandalism in area
Cbc
Image: Cbc
Businesses along Portage Avenue in Winnipeg are calling for government intervention to combat increasing open drug use and vandalism affecting their safety and operations. Local shop owners report frequent incidents, including drug use outside their storefronts and property damage, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced addiction and mental health support.
- 01Businesses on Portage Avenue report a surge in open drug use and vandalism.
- 02Local shop owners express concerns for the safety of their customers and volunteers.
- 03Coun. Cindy Gilroy advocates for more government support for addiction and mental health.
- 04Business owners suggest that removing bus shelters may not solve the issue.
- 05Community leaders are calling for increased funding for support organizations.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Businesses along Portage Avenue in Winnipeg are increasingly alarmed by a rise in open drug use and vandalism, which they say threatens the safety of customers and volunteers. Patty Antoniak and Susan Lockhart, who run the Just Like New to You thrift store, reported a recent fire set in their store's vestibule and multiple incidents of vandalism, costing them thousands in repairs. They noted that the neighborhood has changed significantly in recent months, with more drug activity and people loitering in the area. Local officials, including Coun. Cindy Gilroy, acknowledge that while housing initiatives are underway, there is a pressing need for more resources to address addiction and mental health issues. Gilroy has suggested temporarily removing bus shelters where drug use is prevalent, but neighboring business owners like Brenden Gali argue that this would merely displace the problem. Instead, they advocate for increased funding for community support organizations to provide effective solutions. The situation has prompted calls for collaboration among all levels of government to develop sustainable strategies to improve safety and support for those in need.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
The rise in drug-related issues is affecting the safety and financial viability of local businesses, potentially leading to closures if conditions do not improve.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Reader Poll
What should be the priority for addressing drug-related issues in Winnipeg?
Connecting to poll...
Read the original article
Visit the source for the complete story.




