Title

Ontario Business Improvement Areas: Opportunities Gained and Lost

Author

Michael De Rond, Western University

Date of Award

1-1-2012

Degree Type

Major Research Paper

Degree Name

Master of Public Administration

Program

Political Science

Supervisor

Sancton, Andrew

Geographical Areas

Ajax, Oshawa, Port Perry, Orono, Brooklin, Durham Region

Abstract

This paper examines whether Business Improvement Areas (BIAs) in the Durham Region are taking advantage of the opportunity for greater exposure and increased profits using indicators that measure five BIAs and one business association throughout the area. They include: the Pickering Village BIA; the Downtown Ajax BIA; the Downtown Oshawa BIA; the Port Perry BIA; the Downtown Orono BIA; and the Brooklin Business Association. The findings reveal that, with the notable exception of the Port Perry BIA, the BIAs in the Durham Region are not taking full advantage of opportunities for development and they do not have the same level of interest, intent, and support from the municipality as Port Perry. Ultimately, the biggest determining factor in the success of a BIA is the board of management that is in charge of its direction.

Recommended Citation

De Rond, Michael, "Ontario Business Improvement Areas: Opportunities Gained and Lost" (2012). MPA Major Research Papers. 104.
https://ir.lib.uwo.ca/lgp-mrps/104