Key Dates
Deputation Made to Council
An initial deputation was made at Council asking for a discussion to begin on the future of the Downtown
2026 Budget Preparations begin for Town of Gravenhurst
As part of the Economic Development operational budget, $50,000 is allocated to help conduct a BIA review.
Economic Development Division applies for grant
The Economic Development Division applied for an additional $50,000 through the Rural Ontario Development program. Announcement of funds still pending.
Staff Report Taken to Council seeking Direction
Economic Development Staff took forward a report to Council giving some options for Council to consider implementing to help address some of the challenges in the Downtown.
Option 2 approved for implementation.
Draft Budget available for review
The 2026 proposed budget is available for review by members of the public.
2026 Town of Gravenhurst Budget Approved
The Mayor approves the 2026 operational budget including $50,000 for BIA review project
Council Approves Notice of Motion
At the January 20the Committee of the Whole Meeting, Councillor Johnston made a Notice of Motion as follows:
WHEREAS Council has in place an Economic Development Strategic Plan which provides strategic direction on available mechanisms to support the needs of local businesses within the broader Gravenhurst community; AND WHEREAS Council received a Report in October 2025 regarding the Town’s investments and programs supporting downtown businesses and directed Administration to proceed with the: development of a Vacant Building and Land Registry By-law, modifications to the CIP to include a continuous year-round intake, conduct the Official Plan review with focus on stronger business in key commercial areas, and update the Zoning By-law to focus on, among other things, traditional retail and downtown commercial-type uses; AND WHEREAS Council recognizes the public dialogue regarding concerns of the downtown core and a further call to action; THERFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT Administration be directed to provide regular updates on business retention and attraction activities, particularly within the CIP area. |
The motion is approved.
Working Session with Council
At the Committee of the Whole Meeting on February 10th, a draft Vacant Building and Land By-law was presented to Council for their review and feedback.
Business Check in (BIA Revival) Night
The Chamber of Commerce facilitated this night as an initial evening for business owners across all of Gravenhurst to come our and hear the Ontario Business Improvement Area Association (OBIAA) Executive Director share ideas and gain feedback and thoughts on the priority of a revived BIA.
At this meeting a list of interested business or property owners who would be willing to donate their time to a steering committee was developed.
Economic Development Meets with Business Owners
Interested Business Owners begin meeting to discuss options for events, activations and promotions while the project is moving forward.