Southern Alberta Council on Public Affairs (SACPA)

Several businesses in Lethbridge’s downtown and the surrounding area have closed their doors in the last several months. Other business owners say they are feeling the pinch as well, and attribute much of the struggles to what they say are pervasive negative perceptions of the downtown area. Concerns over everything from the opioid/drug crisis and taxation to parking, are the main issues. Those business owners and employees are feeling the pressure of that, but today’s speaker will explain how she, along with other business owners, are fighting back and meeting with with city officials to address the issues Speaker: Erica Pyska As a leader in the business landscape of Lethbridge for over 20 years, Erica Pyska is excited to share some of her experiences and thoughts on the ever-changing dynamic of downtown Lethbridge. Calling Plum Restaurant home for the last 6 years, Erica has insight on growing a business through economic and political shifts, ecological responsibility and hardships, and supporting peopl