The Downtown Ajax BIA was dissolved in 2022. Since then, the Town has introduced surveys, networking events and promotional programs to support local businesses, and those efforts should be recognized.

​

But there is still more work to do.

​

I have spoken with business owners who want stronger support, better coordination and a greater voice in the future of Downtown Ajax.

Some commercial areas need better maintenance. Storefronts could use improvement. Garbage, damaged signage, poor landscaping and neglected properties can quickly affect how people perceive an entire area.

​

When these smaller issues are allowed to continue, they add up. We need a coordinated approach that brings businesses, property owners and the Town together to address them.

​

My Commitment

​

If elected, I will bring forward a motion asking Town staff to work directly with downtown businesses and property owners to explore bringing back a properly governed Downtown Ajax Business Improvement Area (BIA).

​

Its purpose would be straightforward:

Improve. Promote. Beautify. Strengthen.

​

A successful BIA could help coordinate local improvements, promote businesses, organize events, pursue beautification projects and create a stronger identity and long-term vision for Downtown Ajax.

​

Bringing Experience to the Table

I have direct experience working with one of Toronto's well-known BIAs: Greektown on the Danforth.

​

Through that experience, I have seen firsthand what can happen when businesses work together with a clear vision and strong organization.

​

Greektown has been behind major community initiatives, including Taste of the Danforth, and has invested significantly in beautification and promotion of the neighbourhood.

​

That experience has given me practical insight into what can help a commercial district succeed:

• Consistent beautification and maintenance

• Strong community events

• Collaboration between businesses

• Effective marketing and promotion

• Partnerships and sponsorships

• A clear long-term vision

 

I want to bring those lessons to Downtown Ajax.

 

How Is a BIA Funded?

A BIA is primarily funded through a special levy on commercial properties within the BIA's boundaries — not through a levy on homeowners across Ajax.

​

The business-led BIA develops its annual budget, Council approves it and the Town collects the levy.

​

A BIA can also explore additional sources of funding, including grants, sponsorships, partnerships and event revenue, helping turn local investment into improvements that benefit the entire downtown.

​

Building a Stronger Downtown

​

Bringing back a BIA will not transform Downtown Ajax overnight.

​

But we have to start somewhere.

​

A strong, properly governed BIA can create the foundation for businesses and property owners to work together, tackle issues consistently and build momentum year after year.

​

Downtown Ajax has potential. Now we need coordinated action to turn that potential into results.

​

Residents deserve a downtown they want to visit.

​

Businesses deserve a downtown that welcomes people in.

​

Let's bring businesses, property owners, the Town and our community together to build a stronger Downtown Ajax.