As residents of Gleichen and the surrounding area, we collectively advocate for the closure of the aforementioned liquor store, citing its consistent and repeated violations of regulatory standards. The ongoing breaches of the Alberta Gaming, Liquor, and Cannabis Act pose significant risks to public safety and welfare, necessitating immediate intervention. We urge regulatory authorities to prioritize the well-being of our community by taking decisive action to address these concerns and revoke the liquor store's license.  Here is what one local had to say:

“Every time I shop at our local grocery store, Gleichen Family Foods, I am confronted by individuals asking for spare change or asking where they can buy drugs. They are often intoxicated and some even carry weapons. As a mother of a young child, this is not only distressing but also poses a significant threat to our safety.

This situation is not unique to me alone; many locals share my fear and concern. The presence of these individuals has resulted in decreased patronage at the grocery store which is unfair to the owners who provide an essential service to our community.

The root cause of this problem appears to be the liquor store located nearby where these individuals gather and consume alcohol. By closing down this liquor store, we can discourage loitering and public intoxication which will significantly improve public safety.

We urge local authorities and decision-makers in Gleichen, AB to take immediate action on this matter for the welfare of all residents especially children who should not have to grow up witnessing such behavior or feeling threatened in their own neighborhood.

Please sign this petition if you believe that everyone has the right to feel safe while shopping for their daily needs. Let's work together towards making Gleichen a safer place for all its residents!”

Under the Alberta Gaming, Liquor, and Cannabis Act (AGLCA), the provision of alcohol to individuals already displaying signs of intoxication by the liquor store situated adjacent to our local grocery store constitutes a serious breach of regulatory standards. These individuals, in an inebriated state, engage in disruptive behavior, including soliciting passersby for spare change and offering or seeking illicit substances.

Moreover, they openly carry weapons, incite altercations, and exhibit behaviors indicative of severe intoxication, such as vomiting and defecation, resulting in environmental contamination. Additionally, they congregate in public spaces, engaging in alcohol consumption at all hours, which contravenes public decency regulations outlined in the AGLCA.

Despite being cognizant of these ongoing infractions, business owners have failed to address the situation adequately, perpetuating an environment conducive to such misconduct. Concerns extend to instances of patrons being overserved, leading to hazardous behaviors such as stumbling onto streets and railway tracks, endangering themselves and others.

The community has voiced significant dissatisfaction, with many residents opting to boycott local establishments due to the prevalence of harassment and physical altercations. Emergency medical services are frequently summoned to attend to injuries sustained by these individuals, underscoring the urgency of regulatory intervention.

Regrettably, despite repeated notifications to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), the timely and effective response to these incidents has been lacking, with occurrences persisting on a daily basis. Additionally, individuals loitering around the liquor store have been observed fainting in public, further exacerbating concerns regarding public safety and welfare.

In light of these persistent violations and the resultant risks to public safety, it is imperative for regulatory authorities to take decisive action to enforce compliance with the AGLCA and ensure the protection of community members.