FAQ

What is a BIA?

Business Improvement Areas/Associations or BIA(s) is a non-profit association of commercial property owners and business tenants who join together to promote and improve the commercial vitality of their business district. In general, BIAs implements activities and programs that play an important role in business development, safety and security, and street enhancement for their areas.

How is a BIA funded?

BIAs obtain funding through a special municipal property tax levy, much like a Local Improvement, which is collected by the City of Vancouver. Property owners pass along this cost to their tenants- the levy makes up almost 100% of a BIA’s budget.

How is a BIA different from other business organizations?

Membership in a BIA is based solely on a geographic location. Once a BIA is established, every business within the area is automatically a member and contributes to the association through a tax levy on their property tax bill. The mandate of a BIA is to improve and promote this specific geographic area as a whole through a variety of activities and programs that are specific to the area.

Am I A Member of the Strathcona BIA?

The Strathcona BIA is funded by a special municipal levy that is paid by commercial properties in the designated Strathcona BIA area, and shared by tenants through their rent. If your business or property is located within the designated Strathcona BIA area, you are automatically a Strathcona BIA member (please see accompanying map). Businesses outside of the Strathcona BIA boundaries cannot join the Strathcona BIA.

How does the Strathcona BIA develops its programs and policies?

The Strathcona BIA seeks input through its committee structure. These committees are open to any interested members. Committees then develop programs to address issues as identified by the committee and the BIA members at large. The committees then make recommendations to the Board of Directors. The Board of Directors has final approval of any policy or program recommendations and is also responsible for budget approval. Currently, the Strathcona BIA has 3 working committees in place:

• Marketing Committee: works on initiatives to market and brand the Strathcona business area
• Safe Neighbourhood Committee: works on safety and crime prevention programs
• Visual Improvements Committee: works on street enhancement; keeping Strathcona clean and attractive
• Sustainability Committee: works on initiatives to protect the environment, educates businesses on how they can  incorporate green initiatives into their business
• Government Relations Commitee

If I am a resident of Strathcona, can I become a member of the BIA?

Membership is only available to businesses (all types of retail, office and other tenants) and commercial and industrial building owners. However, residents are welcome to contact the Strathcona BIA with any concerns or ideas.

How can members become involved with the Strathcona BIA?

The Strathcona BIA encourages members to get involved by participating through one of our 4 Committees and by attending our BIA events. These committees are forums to discuss common concerns and formulate policies and programs to address specific concerns. The Strathcona BIA is a member-driven organization, so we encourage your involvement.

Are you a Strathcona BIA member and need a login and password to access the 'Members' section for valuable business building tools?

Contact us either by phone or email to receive your login and password.