In the heart of our community once stood Shop and Save and Black’s IGA—veritable havens where families could find fresh food within walking distance. However, when Shop and Save closed its doors, it took with it a fundamental part of the heart and soul of Ward 1. Since then, we have been left to endure our struggles without any full-service grocery store, making Ward 1 a food desert.

Now, we have been notified of the city's decision to relocate the ARPA funded grocery store initially intended for Ward 1 to Ward 2. This occurred without consultation or transparency and undermined community trust. It's imperative this ARPA funding allocation be honored for Ward 1 as originally planned.

In addition, we demand transparency and community input in matters that affect us. Before any changes are made, it's only right that there be open discussions and community meetings to ensure that what's best for Ward 1's residents comes first.

Finally, we call for an end to backroom deals and conflicts of Interest among city officials and MLKCIA. Transparency and integrity should be the cornerstones of community leadership.

Join us in our fight to bring back our access to fresh, local food and restore the spirit of community within Ward 1 that was once the norm. The city needs to honor its original commitment and keep the grocery store in Ward 1. Support our mission for transparency, community inclusion, and ethical dealings by city representatives.

Please, sign this petition today. Let our collective voice echo in the corridors of power, demanding they uphold the original ARPA funding for Ward 1's grocery store.