The ThunderBlogs

Installing a solar powered sign emblazoned with the words “Welcome to Collingwood” was one of the new ventures proposed at the annual Collingwood Business Improvement Association (CBIA) this past Thursday.

Also discussed in the back room of the Samosa Garden on Kingsway were three main goals of the non-profit CBIA. The association allocated 61% of its budget towards: Crime Prevention; Street Enhancements; and Marketing & Promotions in the last year and committed to these goals in the years to come.

Seven large tables were formally set with dinnerware but only four were used, while a chandelier provided soft light on the power point presentation.  Samosas and garlic infused naan appetizers were passed around and business owners greeted each other informally like old friends, slapping backs and discussing their families.

Despite a noticeable lack of Chinese business owners in an area that is dominated by bubble tea houses, Chinese language advertising and Asian grocery stores, the meeting commenced to approve a seven-year budget and reflect on the current fiscal atmosphere in Collingwood.

According to BIA documents, 71% of businesses in the area are made up of less than 5 employees and 25% have 5-20 employees. The CBIA was formed five years ago, said Jehangri Kara, owner of the Collingwood General Store and a board member, and his business style is to “work more, talk less” he said.

He also expressed disappointment with other board members who were absent from the meeting—part of the meeting agenda was to elect new board members.

Other attendees included business owners from chains like Starbucks and London Drugs and smaller shops like Simply Curries, Inc. and Bikram’s Yoga Metrotown.

Constable, Heather Brown from the Collingwood Community Policing Centre and local politicians, Don Davies, MP, Adrian Dix, MLA and Peter Vaisbord, coordinator of the BIA program from the Vancouver regional planning office, came to provide support and say a few words.

“Don’t tell the other BIAs but you’re my favorite BIA,” Vaisbord said to the audience which garnered a few laughs.

Almost everyone won door prizes of chocolate or wine at the end of the meeting among those who hadn’t left early.

Dix took his opportunity to speak to voice concern over the closing of three Collingwood elementary schools, “You know the children, they’re your customers,” he said after asking business owners to place petitions against closing the schools in their stores.