The open house offered a chance for the public to offer opinions about what the downtown should become – how they think it should be maintained and what sort of character they would like to see in the buildings.

Among downtown strengths identified were the pedestrian-oriented mix of land uses, its renowned heritage character and strong BIA and revitalization committee. Weaknesses included non-historic signs, neglected rear and sides of buildings and the need for high-quality upper storeys to attract a mix of income groups. 

Planning director Eric Cosens says the community improvement plan has the central focus of providing financial and tax incentives to assist owners with improving their properties. Cosens says the project depends on expectations revealed in these meetings.                                                     
Yesterday’s  meetings on the downtown began with a steering committee meeting with study consultants to discuss possible issues facing the project and the direction it should take, followed by a meeting with the stakeholders and landowners to discuss their wishes.