A local business in St. Stephen has decided to close its doors.
Kinga Macdonald, owner of Pyra, the polish potato, said in a statement posted to social media that within the last three years things have changed.
“Unfortunately, hydro (NB Power) has skyrocketed and instead of paying roughly $500 monthly, we are paying close to $1000 monthly,” she wrote. “On top of this, rent for such a small community is beyond high and unrealistically priced.”
She said the homelessness crisis has also deeply affected her business. Locally it is estimated that 100 people are experiencing homelessness in St. Stephen.
Macdonald noted drug paraphernalia being found on the property.
“Our safety has been at risk,” she said in the statement. “Trying to stay safe as a woman running this establishment solely, we realize it just isn’t worth it.”
Macdonald said the business has been sold to a family outside of the Maritimes.
She encouraged individuals to vote in the upcoming municipal election, noting the financial challenges she and many others are experiencing.
“We appreciate everyone who ever ordered from us, to everyone who came in to eat and all those who made us smile,” she said in the post. “We are heartbroken, but we know the business will do better elsewhere.”
