Stirling-Rawdon council reviews potential dissolution of BIA

The Township of Stirling-Rawdon is reviewing the future of the Stirling-Rawdon Business Improvement Area (BIA) following reports regarding its potential dissolution. While council has not made a final decision, staff have prepared reports outlining the dissolution process and potential alternatives for supporting local economic development and downtown businesses.

Concerns raised by the council include low member participation, limited engagement, a small budget, and an inability to increase revenue or form partnerships. In response, BIA acting secretary Jessica Rogers clarified that the organization’s approximately $7,500 annual budget is funded through a specific commercial levy on properties within the designated area, rather than the general tax base. Rogers also noted that while volunteer engagement can be a challenge, current board participation is higher than in previous years.

Mayor Bob Mullin stated that the council's goal is to find a sustainable model for the community. The township acknowledged the volunteer contributions of BIA members and noted that while community support for local events is high, it does not necessarily equate to support for the current BIA governance and funding structure.