What is a BIA/DBA?
A Business Improvement Area (BIA), also sometimes referred to
Downtown Business Area (DBA) is an association of business people
within a specified district who join together, with official approval
of the municipality, in a self-help program aimed at stimulating local
business. The first one in the country started in 1970 in Toronto.
They
use their own money in an ongoing effort to draw more prospective
customers to their area by improving the attractiveness of the area and
promoting it as a good place to shop, visit and do business.
Once
a BIA/DBA is approved by Council, every business within its boundaries
automatically becomes a member. There are no exceptions, under the
principle that all who benefit should be required to bear their fair
share of the cost of the program. The BIA/DBA’s annual budget is
apportioned among its members and is collected with the Town of Smiths
Falls' realty taxes as a special levy (extra tax) which is passed along
to the BIA/DBA to complete its forecasted projects.
While a
BIA/DBA arises from the retail and professional activities of a main
street, it has a profound effect on the surrounding area. It serves as
an economic and social anchor, helping to stabilize and revitalize the
local community.