The Stirling-Rawdon Business Improvement Area (BIA) has been an integral part of our community, fostering economic growth and enhancing the vibrancy of our village for years. As a BIA Board member and organizer of the beloved Market in the Village events, I have seen firsthand the positive impact that the BIA initiatives have on our local businesses, residents, and the community at large. The proposed dissolution of the Stirling-Rawdon BIA is not only deeply concerning but also poses a threat to the community spirit and economic vitality we have collectively built.
The BIA plays a crucial role in supporting local businesses, facilitating community events, beautifying our neighbourhoods, and attracting visitors and investments to our region. The loss of such an organization could result in a decline in business support services, fewer community events, and a diminished sense of identity and community pride. Many small business owners rely on the resources and network the BIA provides to thrive in a competitive market.
According to the Ontario BIA Association, communities with active BIAs report a significant increase in economic activity and community engagement compared to those without. The initiatives spearheaded by the Stirling-Rawdon BIA have been pivotal in creating such outcomes and ensuring that our town remains a vibrant and welcoming place to live and work.
We understand the challenges facing the local council; however, dissolving the BIA is not the answer. Instead, we advocate for constructive dialogue and collaboration between the council, business owners, and community members to explore alternative solutions. This includes engaging in an open forum to discuss possible restructuring or exploring funding opportunities to address budgetary constraints while preserving the BIA’s fundamental operations.
We urge the Mayor and Council of the Township of Stirling-Rawdon to reconsider the proposal to dissolve the BIA. Let's protect the projects and community initiatives that breathe life into our town. Together, we can continue to build a thriving, inclusive, and economically sustainable environment.
Please join us in safeguarding our community’s future by signing this petition. Every signature sends a powerful message that we value and cherish what the BIA contributes to Stirling-Rawdon. Sign now and help us ensure that our community remains a vibrant place for generations to come.
Updates
Reached 100 supporters
August 8, 2026
46 Comments
I am signing this because markets in fall & winter bring the community together. There are a lot of local vendors in our community and outside our community that come together. I have attended fall and winter markets they were wonderful and our family enjoyed them hundreds of people attended.
The Stirling BIA is what keeps the community together. It is who is responsible for many of the community events around town, from the market in the square, to the Christmas lights, to the holiday market, events that have been well attended. Without this, without the hard work of the BIA, Stirling becomes a drive-thru town, no longer a destination, just a town you drive through for your country drive… The efforts going into abolishing the BIA is, in my opinion, appalling. Disgraceful even.
Markets like this help so many people with small businesses. And it helps bring in people to the town. So many locals as well as visitors to the area.
Getting to have the farmers market and other markets throughout the year gets the community involved and staying active while supporting your other community members
The BIA provides a way for small businesses to showcase their products and services to a local market and beyond. Events like the Stirling Market allow for opportunities to connect with like minded business owners and customers, for growth, and for residents outside of Stirling to visit our little town and see what we have to offer.
I've been to every farmer's market since I've moved to Stirling just two months ago. It's something I look forward to every week. I stock my fridge with local produce and have pride in my new community. Having grown up on a small farm I understand how important it is to support small producers. I hope that the hard work of the BIA is acknowledged and these types of events continue so my family and I may participate within, and support, our new community.
It's a Nice particularity for the small city
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The Stirling-Rawdon Business Improvement Area (BIA) has been an integral part of our community, fostering economic growth and enhancing the vibrancy of our village for years. As a BIA Board member and organizer of the beloved Market in the Village events, I have seen firsthand the positive impact that the BIA initiatives have on our local businesses, residents, and the community at large. The proposed dissolution of the Stirling-Rawdon BIA is not only deeply concerning but also poses a threat to the community spirit and economic vitality we have collectively built.
The BIA plays a crucial role in supporting local businesses, facilitating community events, beautifying our neighbourhoods, and attracting visitors and investments to our region. The loss of such an organization could result in a decline in business support services, fewer community events, and a diminished sense of identity and community pride. Many small business owners rely on the resources and network the BIA provides to thrive in a competitive market.
According to the Ontario BIA Association, communities with active BIAs report a significant increase in economic activity and community engagement compared to those without. The initiatives spearheaded by the Stirling-Rawdon BIA have been pivotal in creating such outcomes and ensuring that our town remains a vibrant and welcoming place to live and work.
We understand the challenges facing the local council; however, dissolving the BIA is not the answer. Instead, we advocate for constructive dialogue and collaboration between the council, business owners, and community members to explore alternative solutions. This includes engaging in an open forum to discuss possible restructuring or exploring funding opportunities to address budgetary constraints while preserving the BIA’s fundamental operations.
We urge the Mayor and Council of the Township of Stirling-Rawdon to reconsider the proposal to dissolve the BIA. Let's protect the projects and community initiatives that breathe life into our town. Together, we can continue to build a thriving, inclusive, and economically sustainable environment.
Please join us in safeguarding our community’s future by signing this petition. Every signature sends a powerful message that we value and cherish what the BIA contributes to Stirling-Rawdon. Sign now and help us ensure that our community remains a vibrant place for generations to come.
Updates
Reached 100 supporters
August 8, 2026
46 Comments
Essential in keeping this small town a destination place , a place to gather , support small business .
I am signing this because markets in fall & winter bring the community together. There are a lot of local vendors in our community and outside our community that come together. I have attended fall and winter markets they were wonderful and our family enjoyed them hundreds of people attended.
The Stirling BIA is what keeps the community together. It is who is responsible for many of the community events around town, from the market in the square, to the Christmas lights, to the holiday market, events that have been well attended. Without this, without the hard work of the BIA, Stirling becomes a drive-thru town, no longer a destination, just a town you drive through for your country drive… The efforts going into abolishing the BIA is, in my opinion, appalling. Disgraceful even.
Markets like this help so many people with small businesses. And it helps bring in people to the town. So many locals as well as visitors to the area.
Getting to have the farmers market and other markets throughout the year gets the community involved and staying active while supporting your other community members
The BIA provides a way for small businesses to showcase their products and services to a local market and beyond. Events like the Stirling Market allow for opportunities to connect with like minded business owners and customers, for growth, and for residents outside of Stirling to visit our little town and see what we have to offer.
I've been to every farmer's market since I've moved to Stirling just two months ago. It's something I look forward to every week. I stock my fridge with local produce and have pride in my new community. Having grown up on a small farm I understand how important it is to support small producers. I hope that the hard work of the BIA is acknowledged and these types of events continue so my family and I may participate within, and support, our new community.
It's a Nice particularity for the small city
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Essential in keeping this small town a destination place , a place to gather , support small business .