Downtown Kingston BIA Committees and Advisory Working Groups

Downtown Kingston BIA Committees and Advisory Working Groups actively shape and influence the growth of our vibrant downtown community. Comprised of dedicated professionals, business owners, and stakeholders, each committee and working group plays a vital role in ensuring our district remains an attractive, engaging, and economically thriving hub. Our members bring a wealth of knowledge, expertise, and passion to the table, helping to steer the BIA's efforts toward achieving collective goals and shaping the direction of our community's future. Committee and Advisory Working Group terms shall be for a duration of 2 years, with the option for renewal at the discretion of the Downtown Kingston BIA Board of Directors.


Click here to view the Committee and AWG Meeting Calendar.

Committees of the Board

Committees work closely with the board to provide recommendations, insights, and expertise in their assigned areas of responsibility. By allowing for a more detailed examination of topics or challenges, committees of the board enhance the overall effectiveness and efficiency of the governing body, contributing to the organization's overall success and sustainability.

  • Formerly Clean & Safe Committee
    Staff Representative: Marijo Cuerrier, Minutes: Katie Woodcock | bi-monthly Meeting
    2022-24 MEMBERS: NA
    2025-27: TBD

    The Streetscape and Public Spaces Committee has been established to oversee the enhancement of the overall appearance, functionality, and sustainability of public spaces. This includes working with the municipality to maintain sidewalk cleanliness, implement effective waste management strategies, and beautify the area with flowerbeds and planters. Additionally, the committee will focus on design, management and activation of public spaces, such as parks and pedestrian-only streets and Springer Market Square, to create a more vibrant and welcoming environment for residents and visitors alike.

  • formerly Clean & Safe Committee
    Staff Representative: Marijo Cuerrier, Minutes: Katie Woodcock | bi-monthly Meeting
    2022-24 MEMBERS: NA
    2025-27: TBD

    The Community Safety and Crime Prevention Committee has been created to oversee the development of a comprehensive Community Safety Action Plan with our partners (City of Kingston and Kingston Police). The committee's primary goal is to foster a safe and secure environment for residents, businesses, and visitors. Key responsibilities include analyzing and monitoring local crime statistics, identifying emerging trends, and developing targeted strategies to address potential areas of concern. By working proactively to prevent crime and engaging the community in safety initiatives, the committee strives to enhance the overall well-being and quality of life for everyone in the downtown area.

  • formerly Development and Intensification Committee
    Staff Representative: Pete Gillespie, Minutes: Katie Woodcock | quarterly meeting

    2022-24 MEMBERS: James Ward (Chair), Ed Smith, Scott Botting, Christine Ray-Bratt, Jay Abramsky, Rob Tamblyn, Bryon Springer, Councillor Vincent Cinanni, Alex Splinter
    2025-27: TBD

    The Development and Intensification Committee is established to promote and oversee responsible development, revitalization, and intensification within the Downtown Kingston BIA. The primary objectives of the Committee are to encourage sustainable urban growth, enhance the physical environment, and support economic prosperity within the BIA's boundaries.

  • Staff Representative: Pete Gillespie, Minutes: TBD | meets at the call of the Development, Intensification and Infrastructure Chair

    2022-24 MEMBERS: NA
    2025-27: TBD

    This committee will serve as an advisory body for major projects within the First Capital Place boundaries, which include Springer Market Square, Ontario Street, and Confederation Place Park. Its primary role is to provide valuable input, historical knowledge and guidance on development initiatives, ensuring they align with the community's vision, heritage, and longterm growth objectives. By fostering collaboration and stakeholder engagement, the First Capital Place Committee will contribute to shaping a vibrant and thriving downtown area that respects its historical roots while embracing the future.

4-Year Term Committees

The following committees are comprised exclusively of elected board members, who are appointed at the beginning of each four-year term of the Board of Management. This selection process guarantees that committee representation consists of committed individuals who will maintain a consistent and focused approach, while actively contributing to the organization's mission, vision, and objectives throughout their tenure.

These committees play a vital role in ensuring the Board of Management's strategic plans and goals are effectively implemented and that the organization's overall success is driven by the collective expertise and dedication of its elected members. By maintaining a strong and cohesive team, these committees ensure a continuity of purpose and progress that is essential to achieving long-term growth and prosperity.

  • Staff Representative: Marijo Cuerrier, Minutes: Katie Woodcock | Monthly Meeting

    CURRENT MEMBERS: Christine Ray-Bratt (Chair), Gord Dalton (Vice-Chair), Nick Waterfield, Ed Smith (Past Chair), Melissa Eapen, Steve Wallace

    The Executive Committee is established to provide oversight, guidance, and expertise on matters of the Board of Management and to review upcoming agenda items.

  • Staff Representative: Marijo Cuerrier, Minutes: Katie Woodcock | Monthly Meeting

    CURRENT MEMBERS: Christine Ray-Bratt (Chair), Gord Dalton (Vice-Chair), Nick Waterfield, Ed Smith (Past Chair), Melissa Eapen, Steve Wallace

    The Finance Committee is established to provide oversight, guidance, and expertise on financial matters within the Downtown Kingston BIA area. The primary objectives of the Committee are to ensure fiscal responsibility, transparency, and accountability in the management of the BIA's financial resources.

  • Staff Representative: Marijo Cuerrier, Minutes: Marijo Cuerrier | At the call of the Chair or Executive Director

    CURRENT MEMBERS: Christine Ray-Bratt (Chair), Gord Dalton (Vice-Chair), Nick Waterfield, Ed Smith (Past Chair)

    The Board of Management's primary responsibility is the oversight of the Executive Director, the only direct employee under its supervision. However, on occasion, the committee may become involved in complex human resource projects that concern the broader staff by providing oversight, guidance, and expertise on matters related to human resources within the Downtown Kingston BIA. The Human Resource Committee ensures that the BIA's human resources practices are in compliance with applicable laws and regulations, support a positive workplace culture, and contribute to the effective management of human capital.

Advisory Working Groups

Advisory Working Groups are established to provide expert advice, insights, and recommendations to support the strategic initiatives and decision-making of the Downtown Kingston BIA. The primary objectives of Working Groups are to offer specialized knowledge and guidance on key areas of focus, enhancing the effectiveness and impact of the BIA's activities.

  • Staff Representatives: Pete Gillespie and Jan MacDonald, Minutes: Katie Woodcock | monthly meeting

    2022-24 MEMBERS: Justine Scala (Chair, Minotaur), Christine Ray-Bratt (Chris James), Alix Martin (Fancy That/Roundstone), Cyndy Gibson (Agent 99/Whit), Tina Yan (Midori), Avery Barnes (Heel Boy), Karen Peperkorn (KCAD), Tammy Maynard
    2025-27: TBD

    The Retail Advisory Working Group meets with BIA staff to plan, advise and review promotions and events from a retail perspective, looking for creative ideas that engage visitors and locals with downtown retailers. The Group’s primary objectives are to aid BIA staff in enhancing and creating retail opportunities in the downtown core, acting as a liaison for all retailers, and to advise staff in the planning of events from a retail perspective.

  • Staff Representative: Pete Gillespie, Minutes: Katie Woodcock | quarterly meeting

    2022-24 MEMBERS: Christine Ray-Bratt, Gord Dalton, Michael Springer, Scott Follwell, Krista LeClair, Colleen Walas, Srinivas Srirangam, Ben Pilon, Liv Halliday, Sean Billings, Nicole Kemp, Corey Laplante, Chris Loane, Jason O’Brien, Ryan Rowe, Erin Finucan, Ed Smith
    2025-27: TBD

    The Accommodations Advisory Working Group meets with BIA staff to advise, review, and identify best practices related to accommodation services. The Group’s primary objectives are to review and analyze current accommodation policies and practices to identify gaps and opportunities for improvement.

  • Staff Representative: TBD, Minutes: TBD

    2022-24 MEMBERS: NA
    2025-27: TBD

    The Health and Wellness Advisory Working Group has been established to promote and support businesses that specialize in health and wellness in our downtown community. This group will focus on fostering collaborative relationships with salons, spas, yoga, Pilates, gyms and other health, beauty and wellness focused services in the downtown core.

  • Staff Representative: TBD, Minutes: TBD

    2022-24 MEMBERS: NA
    2025-27: TBD

    The Member Services Advisory Working Group has been formed to enhance the services and resources available to our valued members. This group will work closely with local businesses and organizations to identify areas for improvement, develop tailored solutions, and ensure our members receive exceptional value and support. By continuously evaluating and refining our services, this working group will contribute to a strong, engaged, and thriving member community.

  • The Food & Beverage Advisory Working Group meets with BIA staff to plan, advise and review promotions and events from a Restaurant perspective, looking for creative ideas that engage visitors and locals with downtown restaurants, bars, and cafes. The Group’s primary objectives are to aid BIA staff in enhancing and creating food & beverage opportunities in the downtown core, acting as a liaison for all operators, and to advise staff in the planning of events from a restaurant perspective.

There are many commercial industries and communities represented in downtown Kingston that can have a voice at the BIA. If you would like to talk about the initiation of a new Advisory Working Group or Ad-Hoc Group, please contact the Executive Director, Marijo Cuerrier or the Chair of the Board of Management.

  • Staff Representative: Marijo Cuerrier, Minutes: Katie Woodcock | Activated by the Chair 1-year prior to new Board Term. Exclusive to elected board members.

    MEMBERS: TBD

    The Board Recruitment Committee is established to oversee the nomination and selection process for new members of the Downtown Kingston Board of Directors. The primary objectives of the Committee are to identify, evaluate, and recommend qualified candidates who will effectively serve the best interests of the BIA and its stakeholders.

  • Staff Representative: Marijo Cuerrier, Minutes: Katie Woodcock | Meets annually or at the call of the Chair or Executive Director. Exclusive to elected board members.

    MEMBERS: TBD

    The Governance Committee is established to provide oversight, guidance, and expertise on matters related to governance within the Downtown Kingston BIA. The primary objectives of the Committee are to ensure that the BIA's governance practices are in compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

  • Staff Representative: Marijo Cuerrier, Minutes: Katie Woodcock | bi-annual meeting

    2022-24 MEMBERS: NA
    2025-27: TBD

    The Visioning and Strategic Planning Committee is established to guide and oversee the strategic plan for Downtown Kingston BIA and to instigate the development of a new Strategic Plan when appropriate. The Committee's primary objectives are to collaborate with the senior staff in implementing agreed upon Strategic Priorities thereby contributing to the growth, sustainability, and overall improvement of the Downtown Kingston BIA.