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Welland BIA Challenged on Closures

It also revealed to city council its efforts to support the community, through networking events and festivals

Some challenges facing the downtown Welland BIA and city council.

The BIA spoke at a recent council meeting, first outlining many of its networking events for businesses, as well as on-going community events that have greatly supported the community.

Then, Councillor John Chiocchio brought up a major concern of council.  "Brown's Jewellers, 115 years closing up... Taris on the Water, Honest Lawyer, closed this year.   Royal Bank, closed, the cafe across the street is closed."

The BIA says it has been consulting with downtown businesses to find ways to support them, especially as pandemic loans come due.

Past BIA Chair Kelly Jones added they also look forward to council's support.  "When we get into some of the restaurant industry woes, because a lot of those funds, that were available during COVID... it's time for repayment on those loans.  I can't speak for all those businesses but I know it's a factor in many of the businesses I talk to across Niagara."

Council voted to approve the BIA budget of $119,413.

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