Edmonton Councillor Urges Review of Covenants to Combat Food Deserts

Edmonton city councillor Michael Janz is advocating for a review of restrictive covenants to address food deserts in Alberta. He plans to introduce a motion at city hall seeking Mayor Andrew Knack’s support to encourage the provincial government to adopt measures similar to those recently implemented in Manitoba.

Addressing Food Deserts in Alberta

The issue of food deserts has persisted across Canada, particularly in areas like Edmonton. Janz highlights the detrimental impact of restrictive covenants enforced by large grocery chains, limiting competition and accessibility for local residents. These practices prevent new grocery stores from opening in areas where older ones have shut down.

Manitoba’s Legislative Changes

In June, Manitoba implemented legislation that prohibits grocery stores from imposing new restrictive covenants or exclusivity clauses that hinder competitors. This legislative change serves as a potential model for Alberta.

“There are hundreds of sites across Alberta that previously housed grocery stores but are now blocked due to mergers or acquisitions,” Janz stated. He emphasized that such regulations are detrimental to competition and local economies.

Community Experiences

• Griesbach has been a food desert for 13 years due to Sobeys’ property controls, limiting residents’ access to grocery options.
• Community League president Carl Knowler noted the lasting effects of Sobeys’ restrictions, even after the land was sold.
• The Highlands area also lacks a nearby grocery store, attributed to a restrictive covenant on a former Safeway site.

Calls for Change

Experts believe eliminating these covenants could foster greater competition, reduce grocery costs, and enhance accessibility. Noreen Willows, a professor emerita at the University of Alberta, supports this idea, calling it a “no-brainer.”

Furthermore, a recent amendment to the Competition Act may facilitate challenges against restrictive property controls. Service Alberta Minister Dale Nally acknowledged that his government is monitoring Manitoba’s changes to evaluate their effectiveness.

Conclusion

The call for a review of covenants to combat food deserts resonates strongly within the communities affected. As discussions unfold in Edmonton, the potential for legislative changes lies on the horizon, promising to impact many residents’ lives positively.