Meet Your 2027-2030 BIA Board of Management Candidates

Christine Ray-Bratt

Owner, Chris James, 253 Ontario St.

  • As the owner of Chris James, and the current Chair of the Downtown Kingston BIA, I’ve had the opportunity to see our downtown from a number of different perspectives.

    I understand the day-to-day realities of running a business downtown, but I also understand how decisions around development, parking, safety, tourism, events and long-term planning can shape the health of the entire district.

    I believe this next term will be an especially important one. There is significant development underway and a number of long-term plans taking shape that will influence downtown for years to come. I’d like to continue bringing both practical business experience and the historical knowledge of the work already underway, so we can build on that progress and keep moving forward.

    I’m not afraid to ask questions, challenge ideas when I think we can do better, or speak up for our members. At the same time, I believe strongly in listening, working collaboratively and remembering that downtown is made up of many different businesses and stakeholders, property owners and partners — and most importantly, people — all with different needs.

    I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished, but I also think there is still a great deal of work to do. I would appreciate the opportunity to continue representing our downtown business community and helping ensure downtown Kingston remains a vibrant, welcoming and successful place to do business.

Gord Dalton

General Manager, Confederation Place Hotel, 237 Ontario St.

  • I volunteer every year to support various events, festivals and committees. Furthermore, I have encouraged generations of staff members and family to volunteer their time to the organization.  I am also on the Board of Directors of KEYS (Treasurer).

    For the past 4 years I have served as a DK Board Member (Vice Chair). I have participated in various committees and advisory working groups:

    Accommodations Advisory Working Group, Community safety and Crime Prevention Committee, Development, Intensification and Infrastructure Committee, and the First Capital Place Sub-Committee.

    My job as a board member has been to support the DK organization so that they can continue to add value to those businesses that choose to establish themselves downtown. I would like to see more businesses and their employees engage with DK to further improve the livability and profitability of Downtown Kingston.

    I would be happy to continue in my role as a board member on the Downtown Kingston BIA Board of Directors should you choose to vote for me.

Tina Yan

Owner, Midori Gifts, 232 Princess St.

  • A self-proclaimed shopaholic who grew up immersed in both Eastern and Western cultures, Tina dreamed of bringing her favourite finds to Kingston. That dream became Midori Gifts, a delightful spot where charming stationery and all things kawaii meet the warmth of Eastern culture. Her travels back and forth have given her the wonderful chance to discover unique treasures and share them with her fellow Kingstonians. From day one, her goal has stayed the same: to put a smile on every person's face. Today, that joy reaches even further, with Midori now welcoming shoppers in both Kingston and Ottawa.

    Beyond her shop, Tina is passionate about giving back. She has contributed to the Retail Advisory Group, served four years on the board, and played a leadership role in launching Kingston's Lunar New Year celebrations. Through it all, her mission is simple and heartfelt—to help make downtown Kingston one of the very best places to live, shop, and connect.

Melissa Eapen

Director of Business Development, Improbable Escapes, 303 Bagot St.

  • With a location in the heart of downtown, she has spent more than a decade contributing to the city’s business community. Melissa served two terms on the Downtown Kingston BIA Board, bringing experience in tourism, film, and experiential entertainment to conversations about the future of the downtown core. She is passionate about making downtown Kingston a vibrant place for residents, visitors, and local businesses alike.

Nicole Kemp

Director of Sales & Marketing, Kingston Marriott, 285 King St.

  • I am currently the Director of Sales & Marketing at the Kingston Marriott and a dedicated advocate for Kingston's business and tourism community. Born and raised in Kingston, I have deep roots in the city and proudly raised my two sons here, giving her a strong personal and professional commitment to the continued success of the community.

    With more than 35 years of experience, I brings extensive leadership experience, business acumen, and a broad understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing local businesses. Throughout my career, I have built a reputation for being professional, reliable, collaborative, and committed to delivering results.

    I have worked closely with business leaders, community organizations, tourism partners, and event stakeholders to drive growth, create meaningful partnerships, and enhance visitor experiences. My expertise in sales, marketing, strategic planning, and relationship building positions me well to contribute to the Downtown Kingston BIA Board.

    As a Board candidate, I am committed to representing members' interests, supporting a vibrant and prosperous downtown, and helping ensure Kingston continues to thrive as a destination to live, work, visit, and invest. She would be honoured to bring her experience, dedication, and community-focused perspective to the Board on behalf of BIA members.

Stephanie Quick

General Manager, Delta Hotels Kingston Waterfront, 1 Johnson St.

  • I am passionate about Kingston's downtown and waterfront, and I enjoy working with community partners to support economic growth, tourism, and a vibrant business environment. I look forward to bringing a collaborative and solutions-oriented perspective to the DBIA Board.

Kimberley Allan

[title], Time Out Bar & Bistro, 167 Ontario St.

Andrew Meyer

Owner, General Brock’s Commissary, 55 Brock St.

  • From the age of 11 (as a paperboy in Rochester, NY) I learnt the literal importance of "delivering" on promises, and knowing my customers. My teen years were spent in Montreal, and at 18 my family moved down to Orlando, Florida, where I spent nearly a year. After "making a go of it" down south, I returned by myself to Montreal, where I met my wife and started a family. Holly and I have 2 girls (13 and 19) and are now planting roots here in Kingston.

    We chose to move our family to this city for the proximity to our extended family, the small-town vibe, relaxed and friendly people, and for the emphasis its' citizens seem to place on the importance of buying and supporting local shops like mine!

    Kingston has a wonderful feeling, which translates into happier people. I love connecting with visitors to General Brock's Commissary, and with all of my business neighbors as well. It has already proven a rewarding experience, and look forward to becoming a "local" (or as close to one as people deem me to be!)

Jeff Easton

Broker/Owner, REVEL Realty Kingston, 178 Ontario St.

  • Before real estate, I spent nearly two decades working in the restaurant industry, which taught me the importance of customer service, relationship building, and supporting local businesses. Those experiences, combined with my work in real estate, have given me a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing downtown Kingston and our local business community.

    I am passionate about building connections, supporting local initiatives, and helping businesses thrive. Through my business and community involvement, I have always believed that strong communities are built through collaboration, leadership, and a willingness to give back. Whether organizing charitable events, supporting local organizations, mentoring professionals, or promoting Kingston as a great place to live and do business, I have always tried to lead by example.

    I am seeking a position on the BIA Board because I care deeply about the future of Kingston's business community. I want to bring a practical, solutions-focused approach, listen to the concerns of business owners, and help create an environment where businesses can succeed and our downtown can continue to grow and evolve.

    I would be honoured to earn your support and the opportunity to contribute to the continued success of our community.

Erin Allen

[Insert title], Mio Gelato, 178 Ontario St.

  • Known for her exceptional ability to get things done, Erin is a strategic leader, organizer, and natural community builder. She brings energy, efficiency, and purpose to everything she takes on, whether she's leading her team, mentoring others, collaborating with local organizations, or championing initiatives that strengthen Kingston.

    Driven by a commitment to personal growth and meaningful relationships, Erin is someone people rely on to lead with integrity, solve problems, and turn ideas into action. Her passion for supporting others and bringing people together has made a lasting impact both within her business and throughout the Kingston community.

    Whether she's creating new flavours, organizing events, knitting between projects, or inspiring those around her, Erin leads with heart, vision, and an unwavering belief in the power of community. And yes—she makes a mean gelato.

Philippe Archambault

Co-Owner, Symphony Spa & Yoga, 295 Brock St.

  • As co-owner of Symphony Spa & Yoga and founder of Symphony Vacation, Philippe understands firsthand the opportunities and challenges facing downtown businesses. He brings more than 15 years of experience in project management, business improvement, strategic planning and stakeholder engagement across the private and public sectors, along with an MBA and previous board experience with KEYS Employment Centre.

    Philippe is also the founder and lead organizer of Lobsterfest Kingston, an annual community fundraising event that brings together local businesses, sponsors and volunteers and has raised more than $20,000 annually for local charities.

    Philippe believes downtown Kingston is one of our community's greatest assets. If elected, he will bring a practical, collaborative and business-focused perspective to the BIA Board, with particular attention to increasing downtown visitation and foot traffic, supporting local businesses, strengthening tourism and events, and ensuring BIA initiatives deliver meaningful value for members.

    He would be honoured to earn the support of fellow BIA members and to work alongside them to make downtown Kingston an even more vibrant, welcoming and successful place to do business, visit and enjoy.

Terrence Meltz

General Manager, Olivea, 39 Brock St.

  • In my 16 years, i have come to know more patrons that have become friends than I can count. I try to lead my team with kindness, gratitude and motivation which I have found is the secret to low turn over. I am highly driven, well organized and will always come with an objective mindset.

Katrina Kryza

Owner, Thrifty Girl, 95 Clarence St.

  • I'd like to think I'm relatable and approachable which makes this type of role easy for me to bring concerns to the table and know who to talk to about resolving issues the city may face. My mixture of entrepreneurial and HR experience makes me perfect for the role.

Rob Hamilton

[title], RBC, 65 Princess St.

  • I currently work as an Investment Advisor with RBC Dominion Securities, where I help individuals, families and businesses make important financial decisions.

    My connection to the community extends beyond my career. I spent 5 years as a summer student in the Fort Henry Guard and have served as a Director on the Fort Henry Guard Club of Canada and the Fort Henry Foundation for most of the last 20 years. These experiences have given me an appreciation for board governance, collaboration and community involvement.

    I am interested in joining the BIA Board of Management because I believe I have valuable experience and perspective to contribute, while also being eager to learn. I consider myself easy-going and open-minded, but comfortable speaking up and offering my perspective when I feel I can add value.

Rob Sinclair

Owner, WHIT, 239 Princess St.

  • I have experience working with this team and making critical decisions and recommendations in the areas of Outreach, Police liason, and pilot projects.

    I hope to continue to serve as part of this committee as a member of the board.