2026 - April: Blenheim BIA Meeting Minutes
Date: April 1, 2026 Time: 6:01 PM Location: Blenheim, Ontario
Attendance
Pete Laurie
Wes Thompson
Anthony Ceccaci
Michael Russelo
Gabby Desmends
Sam May
Karen Roesch
Nick Gonzalez
Sarah Jeffords
Frank Thompson
1. Call to Order
Meeting called to order at 6:01 PM.
2. Clock Project Update
The downtown clock project has been completed.
Michael Russelo advised that resources, contact information, and upkeep procedures have been added to an SOP book. A maintenance budget has also been established.
3. Parks, Beautification & Horticulture
Discussion took place regarding seasonal downtown maintenance.
Chris Kirkwood from Parks and Recreation advised coverage will run from May 4 to Labour Day / September 17, including:
Flower maintenance
Weeding
Debris cleanup
Minor soil adjustments
Vernice Smith is assisting with Cherry Fest pie baking competition efforts and is also coordinating local high school student involvement for municipal flower gardens.
Vernice has also proposed designing, planting, and maintaining the flower beds if given approval.
4. Cherry Fest Planning Update
Planning continues to move forward well.
Event Operations:
Stage completed
Contract finalized for Rides
Municipality pilot project discussions underway
Music lineup coordinated with Karen
Pie Competition:
Karen has contacted Anne to confirm church participation for cherry pie baking.
Entertainment:
Kyle Vercoutern running Battle of the Bands Thursday evening
Heartless Saints performing
40 Hours Over as Friday headliner
Beverage Services:
Mindful Market and Bayside Brewing managing Friday beer service
Gabby handling cocktail service
Logistics:
Additional bleachers required
Kent Tent handling tents
Security to be managed internally
5. Bench Replacement Request
A new bench is required in front of Dollar Haven after the previous bench was damaged in a vehicle accident.
6. Garbage Bin Placement
A garbage bin is requested in front of Frostbites.
Discussion included ensuring maintenance responsibilities are formalized in writing rather than verbal only.
7. Cherry Fest Vendor Applications
Sam is currently reviewing vendor applications. Interest has been strong, and applications are being screened to ensure appropriate fit for the event.
8. Alcohol Planning & Compliance for Cherryfest
Discussion took place regarding risk management and operations for licensed areas, including:
Shared security costs
Entrance booth for ID checks and ticketing
Beer service by Bayside Brewing
Cocktail service by Gabby
The board also discussed potential open-carry alcohol legislation at public events and reaffirmed the desire to maintain Cherry Fest’s controlled and family-friendly event vision.
9. Board Elections
Board elections will take place this year through the municipal website for the Blenheim BIA.
10. Strategic Planning Presentation
Jackie Patterson presented ideas regarding development of a formal strategic plan for the BIA.
Topics Included:
Formalizing Committees
Potential committees discussed:
Events Committee
Marketing Committee
Horticulture Committee
Business Development Committee
Strategic Planning Benefits
Long-term direction
Easier board transitions
Better funding opportunities
Measurable goals
Stronger business support
Suggested 3–5 Year Focus Areas
Business Growth & Support
Community Events
Beautification & Streetscape
Marketing & Tourism
Municipal Partnerships
Mission Statement Discussion
Draft statement presented for future consideration:
“The Blenheim BIA exists to support and promote local businesses, enhance the vitality of our downtown, and foster a vibrant, welcoming community through collaboration, events, beautification, and economic development.”
A planning meeting and finalization for the new committee is taking place Friday at 1pm
11. Next Meeting
May 6 2026
12. Adjournment
Meeting adjourned following discussion and completion of agenda items.
