About Us
What is a BIA?
The Listowel Business Improvement Area (BIA) is an organization and our main purpose is to foster a thriving business community. We are designated as a Business Improvement Area (BIA) through the Ontario Municipal Act and a Municipality of North Perth by-law.
Our volunteer Board of Directors consists of up to 12 members who are either representatives from the business community, property owners, Municipal staff and a Municipal Council representative. Together with our part-time coordinator, these passionate business representatives act on behalf of the collective good of Listowel.
What do we focus on?
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plan and administer activities for the marketing and promotion of the Listowel BIA as an attractive business and shopping area
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plan and collaborate with the Municipality of North Perth and other partners for the maintenance and attractive appearance of Listowel
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build partnerships within the community and advocate on behalf of our members
How does membership work?
Membership of the Listowel BIA is based on geographical boundaries established through By-Law by the Municipality of North Perth. All commercial properties within this specified boundary are automatically members of the Listowel BIA.
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There is no fixed cost to your membership. The Listowel BIA is funded through a special levy determined by the Listowel BIA Board of Directors and approved by the Municipality of North Perth Council. The levy is collected annually by the Municipality of North Perth through a tax on commercial properties located within the Listowel BIA boundary. The amount each commercial property owner pays varies based on their individual Municipal Property Assessment.
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Our role
As outlined in section 204 of the Municipal Act, the purpose of a business improvement area is to deliver beautification and promotion initiatives beyond what they municipality is able to provide.
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Although our purpose manifests itself in a variety of ways, guiding everything we do is an overarching goal to represent the collective good of Listowel and remain cognizant of the diverse needs of our membership.