City Council approved the Downtown Wrenford Business Improvement Area budget for 2027 during the regular meeting on September 8. The vote sets the funding plan for downtown revitalization, business grants, and street-level events next year.
The Downtown Wrenford BIA Board of Directors manages the area's day-to-day operations and prepares the annual budget. City staff act as a liaison to make sure the BIA's goals match the City's broader plans for safety, cleaning, and economic growth. The City also collects the BIA levy on behalf of the board to fund the approved budget.
"Downtown is the heartbeat of our city, and a strong BIA keeps our main streets bustling with life," said Mayor Danielle Okafor-Price. "We are proud to work alongside them on programs that help local shops grow and bring more visitors to Mercer Street."
The approved 2027 budget totals $315,000. A levy of $22,500 will cover the downtown portion of the funding, while the rest comes from provincial grants and service contracts. The levy is an increase of six per cent compared to 2026.
If you own a business downtown, you will see these funds put toward street festivals, safety upgrades, and marketing that draws visitors to Mercer Street. Council will review a draft amendment to the Business Licensing By-law 2021-033 at a future meeting to update the levy collection rules. The Downtown Wrenford BIA has supported merchants in the downtown core for more than 30 years, focusing on marketing, street festivals, and business advocacy.
For more information on how the BIA funds its projects, visit the Downtown Wrenford BIA.