2026 - May: Blenheim BIA Meeting Minutes

Date: Wednesday, May 6, 2026
Time: 5:31 PM – 7:51 PM
Location: Blenheim Community Funeral Home Meeting Room

1. Call to Order

The meeting was called to order at 5:31 PM.

2. Attendance

Present:
Andrew Petley, Michael Russelo, Karyn Roesch, Peter Laurie, Andrew Tompsett, Kim Wakeman, Anthony Ceccacci, Sam May, Tinna Doyon, Kevin Dupuis, Lauren McKenzie, Jenn McDonald, Vernice Smith, Jackie Patterson, Shannon Paiva

3. CK Tourism Presentation – Event Promotion Collaboration

Shannon delivered an informative and well-received presentation on tourism collaboration.

Key highlights included:

• A clear definition of a tourism destination as a location that:

  • Attracts visitors for leisure, education, or recreation

  • Provides opportunities for participation across all age groups

  • Generates a meaningful draw for visitors

• Announcement of a new community calendar being added to the CK Tourism website

• Confirmation that BIA members and community partners will be able to register, log in, and upload tourism events directly

The Board acknowledged the value of improved coordination with CK Tourism to enhance event visibility and regional engagement.

4. Board Governance Review – Quorum Policy Consideration

Not discussed.

5. Motion – BIA Digital Platform & Promotion Policy

Not discussed.

6. New Member Login Portal – BIA Website

Andrew Tompsett presented an overview of the proposed BIA website member portal.

Discussion Outcome:

• The Board agreed to retain a clearly visible “BIA Members” button on the website

• The login requirement will be removed to ensure easier and more accessible navigation for members

7. Strategic Plan Review & Approval

The agenda item was revised during the meeting.

• The Board reviewed the proposed Strategic Plan (prepared by Patterson, Thompsett, and Jeffords)

• The vote for approval was deferred

• It was agreed that:

  • Further review and revisions will take place

  • A formal vote will be scheduled at a future meeting

8. Logo Approval – Pie Baking Competition & BIA Branding

Not discussed.

9. Motion – Event Booth Opportunities for Non-Main Street Members

Not discussed.

10. Motion – Downtown Bird Feeder Initiative Exploration

Not discussed.

11. Other Business / Roundtable

Discussion focused on remaining planning items for the Cherry Fest event.

During this portion of the meeting:

• Chair Michael Russelo formally resigned from his position

• Co-Chair Sam May also resigned due to medical reasons

12. Adjournment

The meeting concluded at 7:51 PM following the above announcements.

13. Follow-Up & Contact

For any questions or concerns, members are encouraged to contact:

• Treasurer: Peter Laurie

• Secretary: Jackie Patterson –