Edmonton's downtown is in trouble. Crime is up, businesses are shutting down, and an expected influx of new residents just hasn't materialized. What's the problem and how do we fix it? 

City councillors Aaron Paquette and Sarah Hamilton join Ryan for a fiery debate in the Real Talk studio. They spell out the reality right now (12:00), why Clr. Paquette doesn't support a new provincial task force (31:30), and how to address angry opposition to supervised consumption sites (37:30). 

If you've been wondering about the "15 Minute Cities" plan, you'll find the truth at 48:15. The councillors take us behind the curtain re: why the voted the way they did on the four-year budget (1:04:00), a failed regional transit plan (1:05:30), and bring us up to speed on Edmonton's anti-racism strategy (1:14:00). The round table wraps with ideas to inject energy back into Jasper Avenue (1:16:30). 

Take a look at the stunning pond hockey masterpiece Lewis Lavoie painted for the Real Talk Pond Hockey Classic (1:21:00). It's up for auction right now, in support of KidSport St. Albert and Uncles & Aunts at Large! 

PLACE YOUR BID: https://twitter.com/ryanjespersen/status/1620468621511393281?s=20&t=bnZBXgAn7DeYvgZ6eL0jYg

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The views and opinions expressed in this show are those of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the position of Relay Communications Group Inc. or any affiliates.