At the Council Meeting held on December 10, 2025, Council voted not to reinstate the Business Improvement Area at this time.

Overview 

We are exploring the reinstatement of a Business Improvement Area (BIA) for downtown. A BIA lets local commercial property owners and business tenants work together with our support on shared priorities like beautification, marketing, events, and advocacy. 

Timeline 

  • Council directed staff to explore reinstating the BIA - May 2025 

  • Community engagement – September to November 2025  

  • Staff analysis –November 2025 to January  2026

  • Council to review options and make a decision – February to March 2026  

Why Now 

Meaford had a BIA from 1978 to 2022. With renewed interest from the business community, Council has asked staff to review options and report back in early 2026. 

What We Are Analyzing 

  • Financial impacts of a BIA levy on commercial properties 

  • Proposed boundary options for a potential BIA 

  • Resources we would need to support a BIA if approved 

How You Can Participate 

  • Learn how BIAs work, review draft boundaries, and share your feedback with staff at the community information session.
    When: Wednesday, September 24, 2025, 7:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (drop in anytime) 
    Where: Meaford Hall Gallery, 12 Nelson Street East 

  • Complete the 5-question community survey to share your views on reinstating a BIA and local priorities. 
    Open until September 24, 2025. 

Take the survey

  • Speak directly before Council at the public meeting
    When: Monday, November 10, 2025, 5:00 p.m. 
    Where: Council Chambers, 157859 7th Line     
    Can’t attend in person? Send written comments to council@meaford.ca or participate virtually. 

What We Will Bring to Council 

  • Summary of what we heard from the survey, the information session, and the public meeting 

  • Options for BIA boundaries and levy approach 

  • Review of resources needed to support a BIA 

Frequently Asked Questions 

 What is a BIA levy? 
 A levy is an annual contribution from commercial properties within the BIA boundary. It is set through the BIA’s budget and collected by the municipality. 
 Who is included? 
 Commercial property owners and business tenants within the final BIA boundary become members. 
 How is the levy calculated? 
 Based on the assessed value of the property and the BIA’s annual budget. Council may consider minimums or maximums for the levy. 
 What do BIAs usually do? 
 Typical activities include marketing and promotions, community events, beautification projects, and advocacy for downtown businesses. 

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