The Township of Stirling-Rawdon is providing additional context regarding Council’s ongoing review of the Stirling-Rawdon Business Improvement Area, following a meeting between representatives of the Township and the BIA Executive.
In a statement from the Township Wednesday, officials noted council has not made a decision to dissolve the BIA.
At its July 7 meeting, Council directed staff to prepare a report outlining the process that would be required should Council decide to dissolve the BIA.
That report was brought back to the table August 4 for information and outlined both the dissolution process and potential alternatives for supporting downtown businesses, events and economic development.
Rather than taking action on dissolution at that meeting, Council received the information and requested an opportunity to meet with members of the BIA Executive to hear their perspective and discuss the concerns identified in the report.
The Township appreciates the BIA representatives who participated in that discussion and recognizes the significant amount of volunteer time that current and past BIA members have contributed to the community.
The Township has also received correspondence expressing support for these events. That feedback is appreciated and will be considered as Council moves forward. However, support for individual community events should not necessarily be interpreted as support for retaining the existing BIA governance and funding structure.
The BIA is a legislated municipal board with a specific mandate under the Municipal Act. Its approximately $7,500 annual budget is funded through an additional tax levy on commercially rated properties within the designated BIA area.
“Whatever Council ultimately decides about the BIA structure, we want to build on the good things that have been accomplished,” stated Mayor Bob Mullin. “There are dedicated volunteers, successful events and people who care deeply about Stirling.”
“Our goal is to find a sustainable model that brings those strengths together and creates more opportunities for partnerships, investment and community involvement.”
Council will consider the information received from the BIA Executive, the staff report and community feedback before determining its next steps.
