The concept of Business Improvement Areas (BIAs) originated in 1970. A group of business people in the Bloor-Jane area of west Toronto were concerned about the erosion of their marketplace caused by the growing popularity of shopping malls, plus an extended subway system, both of which were drawing shoppers away from their traditional shopping areas.

Under the Provincial legislation (Section 217 of the Municipal act, RSO 1980, suspended by section 220, RSO 1990) the originators created a self-help program. The legislation empowered the BIA members to use their own money to promote their BIA and to make physical improvements to their area in order to attract more customers. This not only benefitted the local businesses, but also the entire neighbourhood.

Who is the City Councillor for College West?

College West is part of Ward 18 and the current city councillor is Ana Bailão.

To contact the City Councillor:
councillor_bailao@toronto.ca

Councillor Bailão’s website:
www.anabailao.ca

100 Queen Street West, Suite C42
Toronto, ON  M5H 2N2
Phone: 416-392-7012
Fax: 416-392-7957