Business Improvement Area By-Law Passes First Reading

During a council meeting on October 3, 2022, the Town of Saint Andrews passed the first reading of the Business Improvement Area By-Law for the imposition of a special business improvement levy for 2023 that will apply to businesses located within the downtown Water Street core that are not designated residential properties. The BIA begins on Water Street at the intersection with Princess Royal Street and proceeding westerly on Water Street to the intersection with Elizabeth Street, including all properties on the north side of Water Street to their property lines and on the south side of Water Street to the high-water mark. The levy is 20 cents on every $100 of assessment of downtown businesses.

"The BIA does a lot in our town that goes towards amplifying our downtown business district, from seasonal decorations to the holiday decor," said Mayor Brad Henderson. "The funds collected from the levy will go towards beautifying the town with flowerpots during the busy summer season and holiday lights for the poles during the Christmas and New Year season."

There will be a public hearing of objections to the BIA By-Law on Monday, October 17, 2022 for those wishing to voice their concerns.  

Harold E. Wright, Chair of the Saint John Wing of Royal Canadian Air Force Association, also made a presentation to town council about the desire of his organization to create Pennfield Ridge Memorial Park at the Pennfield Airport to commemorate the lives lost in service at this particular airport. Wright was at the Saint Andrews council meeting to ask councillors and the mayor to consider financially supporting the endeavour. Mayor Henderson said that council appreciated the presentation and would make a decision at a later date regarding whether or not to financially support it.