Many local businesses say the Downtown BIA seems to be ignoring their voices in the conversation around an SCS service in downtown Barrie.

We wanted to talk to those businesses.

Katie Green, artist and owner of Spare Room Artist Studios, says the BIA hasn’t followed through on its claim to educate, inform and engage all business owners.

"We feel a little forgotten by the BIA," says Green, whose shared artist studio space is on Dunlop St in downtown Barrie. 

A new website, under the domain engage.downtownbarriegage.ca, the BIA claims that they "want to ensure that all BIA members and supporters have the opportunity to educate themselves and share their voices with the decision-makers."

However the website's "take action" form is un-editable and does not allow businesses to voice support for currently proposed SCS locations in downtown Barrie. 

Sam Gillett, Barrie Community Media's LJI journalist, was not able to get Downtown Barrie BIA representatives on camera.

Here’s an emailed statement from the BIA:

“The Downtown Barrie BIA understands the impact the opioid crisis is having on our city. We have seen the data and we know our members witness related issues firsthand daily.

The opioid issue affects those with addictions, as well as our community’s first responders, business owners, and residents.

This is why we have joined the Site Selection Advisory Committee and are working collaboratively with the health experts and other stakeholders to ensure all options for an SCS are considered so the best choice for Barrie is made.

The Downtown Barrie BIA is not opposing an SCS and has actually previously supported a proposed SCS location at 90 Mulcaster that was ultimately rejected following further community consultation.”