The Process of Establishing the Coquitlam North Road Business Improvement Association (CNRBIA

The Process of Establishing the Coquitlam North Road Business Improvement Association (CNRBIA

Understanding a Business Improvement Area (BIA)

A Business Improvement Area (“BIA”) is a Local Service Area where funds are collected through a levy applied to benefiting properties within a designated area. These funds are then used to support initiatives that enhance the local business environment. The CNRBIA is currently proposing a catchment area that includes the stretch of North Road from the south end of Highway 1 up to Como Lake and Clarke Road.

Steps to Establish the CNRBIA

1. Initial Formation and Seed Funding

  • A group of property owners and businesses within the proposed BIA catchment area come together to form the Business Improvement Association.

  • Request seed funding from the City of Coquitlam to develop a strategic plan.

  • Conduct outreach to local businesses and property owners to build support for the BIA’s establishment.

2. Development of the BIA Proposal

  • Identify and define the organization that will represent the BIA.

  • Establish the geographic boundary that the BIA will cover.

  • Develop a funding formula for the levy that will finance BIA activities and improvements.

  • Determine the term of the BIA bylaw, typically lasting 5 years before renewal is required.

  • Reference corporate reports from existing BIAs, such as those in Austin Heights and Surrey, to guide planning and best practices.

3. Submission to City Council

  • Work closely with municipal staff to prepare and submit a report to City Council detailing the proposed BIA structure, boundaries, and funding approach.

  • City Council reviews the submission and initiates the required notification process.

4. The Council Initiative Process

Under the Community Charter, there are two methods for determining the level of support for a BIA:

(A) Council Initiative Process (Most Commonly Used)

  • The City notifies property owners within the proposed BIA boundary.

  • Property owners who oppose the BIA have 30 days to submit a formal petition to City Council.

  • If fewer than 50% of landowners (representing at least 50% of the total assessed value of affected properties) oppose the BIA, the bylaw proceeds to final adoption.

(B) Petition Process

  • Instead of opposition being required to stop the BIA, this approach requires a majority of property owners to actively sign a petition in favor of establishing the BIA.

5. BIA Bylaw Adoption and Implementation

  • If a sufficient petition against the BIA is not received, the City will move forward with final adoption of the BIA Bylaw.

  • Once approved, the BIA levy is implemented, and businesses within the area will be required to contribute.

  • The BIA can now begin operations, focusing on initiatives that enhance local businesses, improve safety, beautify streetscapes, and create promotional opportunities.

What’s Next?

The CNRBIA is currently in the outreach and engagement phase—connecting with property owners, businesses, and the City of Coquitlam to build awareness and support.

Still to be Done:
  • Gathering Community Input: Continue engaging with business owners and property owners to address concerns and build consensus.
  • Finalizing the BIA Proposal: Define funding models, geographic boundaries, and governance structure.
  • Submitting to City Council: Work with municipal staff to present a formal proposal for Council review.
  • Navigating the Council Initiative Process: Ensure businesses understand the process and timelines.
  • Final Adoption: Secure the establishment of the BIA and begin implementing programs that will support and grow the business community on North Road.

Why This Matters

It is crucial for business and property owners to be informed about this process, as the levy, once established, will be collected with no option to opt out. Understanding the steps involved ensures transparency and gives the business community a voice in shaping the future of North Road’s commercial district.

If you have any questions or would like to get involved in the process, please contact us at info@cnrbia.ca or visit our website for updates.