Elora BIA Merchants Executive Board
Meetings and Members

BIA COMMITTEES

ALL COMMITTEES ARE OPEN TO NEW MEMBERS
Any member of the public can join a committee to help the Elora downtown Business Improvement Area in these areas:

Below is the information for the Beautification, Marketing & Events, Budgeting, and Governance committees, as well as key committee governance details.

BEAUTIFICATION
Team Lead: Exec Treasurer Robin G
Members: Exec Aileen J

Oversees and initiates the improvement, beautification, and maintenance of municipal lands, buildings, and structures within the business improvement area. Ensures the best interests of BIA businesses are clearly communicated to the Township.

Areas of focus include but are not limited to:

• Streetscape Improvements & Amenities: Enhancing lighting, signage, street furniture, planters, waste disposal, banners, and sidewalk treatment.

• Seasonal Decorations: Creating an inviting atmosphere through seasonal and holiday-appropriate decorations.

• Natural Landmarks: Preserving and enhancing Elora’s natural landmarks within and adjacent to the BIA.

GOVERNANCE
Team Lead: Exec Cathi B
Members: Exec Chair, Erika M,

Ensures BIA operations align with municipal regulations, bylaws, and best practices. Reviews governance structures, policies, and compliance with the Municipal Act.

MARKETING AND EVENTS
Team Lead: Exec Cathy D
Members: Exec Aileen, Exec Cathi B

Promotes the BIA as a distinct economic area featuring unique businesses, restaurants, and natural attractions while serving as a hub for cultural, artistic, and social activity.

Areas of focus include but are not limited to:

• Communication: Identifying key customer segments and developing advertising/communication programs to increase foot traffic and enhance the Elora brand.

• Promotions: Understanding area customers and creating effective promotions to retain and expand the customer base.

• Special Events: Organizing and partnering in events that highlight the area’s unique attributes and drive customer visits.

BUDGETING
Team Lead: Exec Treasurer Robin
Members: Chair Erika M, Exec Kathy S

Responsible for financial planning, allocation, and oversight of BIA funds to ensure fiscal responsibility and strategic investment in BIA initiatives.

STRUCTURE & GOVERNANCE OF COMMITTEES

• Committees are established by the Executive and report only to the Executive.

• Each committee must have at least three (3) members, including at least one Executive director (other than the Chair) and at least two BIA members.

• The Chair of a committee is elected by its members. The Executive Chair cannot chair any committees.

• Committees are responsible for investigating, preparing plans, and recommending actions to the Executive within their mandate.

• No committee has authority to enter contracts or commit financial liabilities beyond the approved budget.

• Committee chairs (or a representative) must report to the Executive at each Board meeting. Reports must be attached to the Executive meeting minutes.

• Any expenditure over $250 that was not previously approved in the budget requires Executive approval.

Committee Structure:
Committees must have at least three members, with at least one member from the Executive and at least two members from the BIA.

Meeting Requirements:
No committee meetings can take place until there are at least three members. Open meeting rules apply under the Municipal Act and meetings must be public and recorded.