JASON SETNYK
The Cornwall Downtown Business Improvement Area’s Annual General Meeting offered members a detailed look at the past year’s work and priorities for 2026. The meeting covered updates on finances, downtown initiatives, beautification projects, and ongoing collaboration with the City of Cornwall.
DBIA Chair Martha Rochon opened the session by confirming the 2026 Board of Directors: herself as Chair, Kristin Davey as Vice Chair, and Joel Filion as Treasurer, with directors Kelsey Lee, Amanda Gaucher, Jodie Reynolds, Elaine MacDonald, and Dave MacLean. Rochon also acknowledged the contributions of outgoing board member Nancy Vigeant. “She had to step back for business and life, and we’re grateful for everything she brought to the table,” she said.
Treasurer Joel Filion presented the financial report, noting stable revenues and ongoing work with the City regarding HST recoveries. He also highlighted increased spending on beautification and maintenance. “We’re in a strong cash position right now, and this year we’re placing more focus on making the downtown an even more inviting space,” Filion explained.
Cornwall Councillor Elaine MacDonald, who sits on the DBIA board, provided updates on city projects impacting the core, including the long-anticipated Cornwall Arts Centre at 159 Pitt St. “It has taken far too long and has caused real frustration, but we finally see an end in sight,” she said.
“When it opens, the spin-off for restaurants, boutiques, and the evening economy will be tremendous. It’s hard right now to picture the promise behind all that construction debris,” MacDonald said. “But once those doors finally open, people will see just how significant this addition to the downtown will be.”
DBIA Administrator Ross Butterworth reported that 18 Fin Lights have been installed, with three awaiting electrical adjustments. MacDonald also praised the newly installed Fin Lights, designed by Mohawk artist Jade Thompson. “I was thrilled to see the first one go up. It’s so good to see this coming together,” she said.
Butterworth also confirmed progress on the proposed artisan village, a semi-permanent cluster of market cabins planned for the lot beside Mexi’s. “We’re making sure that when it’s go time, we’re ready to go,” Butterworth said. “We’d love to start with 10 cabins and eventually have 15 or 20.” The site could support up to 35 cabins.
The proposed artisan village also gained visibility earlier this month when the DBIA pitched the concept at the Tourism Innovation Challenge. Although the project was not selected for funding, organizers said the experience helped refine the plan and build momentum. They are preparing additional applications, while continuing to explore sponsorships and other grant opportunities to bring the market concept to life.
Operational and administrative support staff member Angela Bero outlined highlights from 2025, including the introduction of the “Oops Card,” a parking grace-period tool created after a joint meeting with the City. “The business community really felt heard, and the outcome came quickly,” Bero said. She also celebrated the return of Win This Space, which awarded one year of free rent to Relove Dress Rentals. Bero noted that the finalist training phase is a crucial part of the program. “This is why the training phase matters; many people don’t realize the costs involved in bricks-and-mortar,” she said. Other 2025 successes included Shop the Blocks, the DBIA’s event-support program, and December holiday programming that featured photos with Santa, cosplay characters, Zumba, a choir, and a chance to win downtown dollars.
Business owner Stuart Gordon briefly raised concerns about the AGM start time, sparking a light exchange about scheduling and turnout. Members noted that the DBIA has tried both morning and after-5 p.m. meetings, and no decision was made regarding the timing of next year’s AGM.
Looking ahead, the DBIA plans to expand beautification, enhance marketing, strengthen tourism partnerships, and work closely with city staff as the Arts Centre approaches opening. Rochon closed the meeting by saying, “We need your opinions and your voices. There’s a lot of excitement building, and it’s going to be a good year for the downtown.”
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