BIA proposes expansion to cover more of downtown

This map shows the current and proposed BIA boundaries.

Jeff Helsdon, Editor

The town is seeking input on a proposal to increase the boundaries of the Downtown Tillsonburg Business Improvement Area (BIA).

Formed in 1978, Tillsonburg BIA was one of the first in Ontario. At the time the population was 9,400 people. The original boundaries stretched from Venison Street, south to Bloomer, and were bounded by Valley View on the west and a line roughly down the middle of Lisgar Ave to the east.

“It’s basically been the same zone for more than 50 years, but the population has more than doubled,” said BIA Executive Director Mark Renaud, noting the population is now more than 21,000.

The proposed expansion would stretch from the middle of Concession Street on the north, along the Stoney Creek gully on the west to Otter Creek, across to Young Street on the South, and then up Vienna Road, crossing the Otter and towards Maple Lane. There would be no impact to residential home owners, but there would to commercial and industrial properties.

The release announcing the expansion stated, “An expanded BIA zone also opens the door to greater collaboration and synergy in areas like marketing, events, and activations. The new zone unlocks access to key public spaces ideal for hosting community events, such as Annandale House, Coronation Park, John Pound Road, the Tillsonburg Community Garden, and the Annandale Public School campus. These venues provide incredible opportunities for inclusive, well-attended gatherings that benefit the entire town.”

Renaud said becoming part of the BIA will allow businesses to take part in the promotions. He said some town businesses, such as Indigo Lounge, already pay an affiliate marketing fee members to take advantage of the promotion. This will also expand the area the BIA looks after.

“We’re well regarded as having one of the cleanest downtowns anywhere,” he said, adding there will be no additional staff added if the proposal is approved.

The cost of being part of the BIA is related to the municipal tax assessment of a business. Renaud gave the example of a median commercial property with an assessment of $265,000, saying the BIA levy would be $747. He also noted BIA rates have decreased and, with more membership, are expected to decrease further.

The process started in October 2023 when the BIA’s board of management agreed to request a boundary expansion. Later that month, council agreed to the boundary expansions.

As part of the process, owners of businesses in both the current and proposed areas must be notified before a boundary expansion bylaw is passed. A 60-day objection period started on April 11, and should be filed with the town clerk. The clerk will report to council in June or July, with the expectation that if the proposal proceeds, it will take effect on Jan. 1, 2026.

Approval of the plan will also allow for better planning for the expansion of the downtown at some point in the future.

“If we don’t expand the downtown will die and force development outside the core,” he said.