The Downtown Squamish Business Improvement Association (BIA) might soon have an extra $25,000 in its budget. BIA representative Eric Armour asked District of Squamish Council at its meeting Tuesday (June 17) that council consider relocating money previously given to council by Wal-Mart to the BIA."It is our understanding that $25,000 was set aside for downtown beautification," he said. "We have many plans for downtown improvements."Community development officer Mick Gottardi said the money could go toward the BIA, noting that Wal-Mart put few restrictions on the contribution."They were pretty flexible in terms of how the money was used," he said. "If it's used for the downtown that's the main purpose."However, he noted that move could cause some controversy since the BIA does not encompass all of the businesses some consider to be downtown. For instance, the Chieftain Centre and Squamish Station Mall do not fit within in the organization's boundaries, which encompass Loggers Lane, Cleveland Avenue and Second Avenue up to Pemberton Avenue."There are merchants in the downtown that are not part of the BIA and I don't know to what extent they may feel an entitlement to those funds," said Gottardi.His comment touched on a lingering debate about inclusiveness that was one of the largest areas of opposition when the BIA was formed two years ago.Paul Lalli, who has since sold his business on Second Avenue, has long objected to the organization's boundaries. He said it still needs to be broadened."I always believed that in order for the BIA to be successful, it has to embrace all the businesses like the hotel tax that's coming forward. That's how projects like that work."John Lowe, speaking on behalf of John Drenka, who owns two lots on Cleveland Avenue and the building housing Scotiabank, said more businesses would also mean more revenue for the organization, leading to more successful projects."If all the businesses had of participated, they might have been able to do something worthwhile," Lowe said. "I don't see what they've done so far to attract business."The BIA's plans include enhancing lighting, greenery and street furniture on Second Avenue, as well as designing and implementing signature events for downtown Squamish.The organization's money comes from an annual levy, which generates $45,000 each year. Wal-Mart's $25,000 contribution to the district would significantly boost the BIA's budget if transferred.Coun. Patricia Heintzman said the sum could be even greater. She said she recalled Wal-Mart contributing $100,000 for a discernable community project."I think it would be a good idea to use that money wisely," she said.Sutherland was not sure that money existed."I don't recall that $100,000," he said.He suggested addressing the issue at a council meeting on July 15.
