Edmonton is looking for ways to support its city nightlife without breaking the bank. City council approved a motion late Wednesday to prepare a night-time economy office package, which should map out staffing and operational costs for a group of staff dedicated to co-ordinating evening and late night activities. Mayor Andrew Knack says he’s been to many evening events, concerts and raves included, and has seen for himself the revenue generated – even without city support. “Even something as simple as, if you have a question and you’re running a night-time business, chances are you can’t get a hold of someone because they’re working during the day,” he said Wednesday. “Should we not have a single person dedicated to working the night-time hours, so that if somebody has questions about permits or how to operate businesses that they can call and do business with the city?” An executive committee heard from a number of Edmontonians who work the night-time economy who asked for an office dedicated to organizing after-dusk events. City administration’s package will be discussed during budget talks.
