Our Mandate:

• Create a strong and unique brand for the Fleetwood Business District
• Develop a beautification  and façade improvement program
• Address safety and security concerns
• Initiate and promote community events
• Implement commercial tenant retention and recruitment programs

We are actively involved in community planning initiatives, and will continue to work closely with local community groups and all levels of government to ensure that community interests are well represented. This includes advocating for needed public amenities and physical improvements, and providing input on municipal policies and regulations and proposed development applications in and around the Fleetwood business district.

As the Fleetwood BIA becomes more established, we will continue to add additional funding through government grants, private sponsorships, in-kind contributions of goods or services, donations and fund-raising activities. These efforts will significantly increase our operating budget, at no additional cost to members.

The BIA is as strong as its members, and as effective as the level of participation of the membership. Board members provide time and effort with countless volunteer hours for the benefits of the members; we hope and encourage all members to participate in events, projects and ongoing programs designed to improve your businesses and properties. Board members and BIA members have donated furniture, manpower, office space, webdesign and publishing services for the mutual goals of all members of the BIA.

ABOUT BIAs

A Business Improvement Association (BIA) is a non-profit organization that represents all businesses and property owners within a specific area. Government legislation permits and guides the steps necessary for a neighborhood to become a BIA. Locally, its creation, operation, business plan and budget must be approved at the municipal level.

BIAs engage, on behalf of all businesses and property owners within the specific area, in matters such as promotion, festivals, crime prevention, security, cleanliness, transportation, parking and advocacy. BIAs succeeded where voluntary business organizations often fail because the financial contribution of all properties and businesses is obligatory.

BIAs IN BRITISH COLUMBIA

The BIA movement in B.C. began in Gastown in the 1970’s when the property owners, businesses and developers working hard to revitalize the area joined together in the effort. The result of the effort was what we now see as Gastown, a tourist and family-friendly vibrant community. It was not until 1988 when the provincial government finally passed the appropriate legislation to approve Business Improvement Associations. Since that time, over 50 BIA’s have started in BC. Provincially, the BIAs are represented by the Business Improvements Areas of British Columbia (BIABC).

BIAs are not unique to British Columbia. While predominately in North America, some have begun in Europe and elsewhere. The concept is simple, and supported by goverment; unite stakeholders within an area and provide support and authority to improve the community. Iit is quite effective when dedicated members and stakeholders of the area work together for the common goal of business improvement.