Sparks Street BIA
Sparks Street BIA (Business Improvement Area) is proud to be one of the most vibrant commercial districts in Ottawa. Sparks Street BIA came into existence when local business and property owners joined together to improve, promote and undertake projects that create a stronger and more competitive commercial district. We organize, finance and complete local improvements and promotional events.
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The range of activities that Sparks Street BIA undertakes include:
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Marketing: Understanding who area customers are, and creating effective promotions to retain and expand the customer and visitor base
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Business recruitment: Working with property owners to ensure that available space is occupied, and that an optimum business and service mix is achieved and maintained
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Special events: Organizing and partnering in special events that highlight the unique attributes of the area and increase customer visits
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Sparks Street BIA Annual Report 2020 - Click Here
Sparks Street BIA Staff:
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Kevin McHale
Executive Director
Marissa Lord
Communications and Engagement Director
Bob Rumscheidt
Event and Site Logistics Manager
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Sue-Ellen Holst
Main Street Ambassador
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Sparks Street BIA Board of Directors:
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Board Chair: Ian Wright
Partner, The Snow Goose
Chris Hetherington
Real Estate Management Operations Officer, National Capital Commission
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Lindsay Appotive
Owner, True Bijioux
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Jason Komendat
Owner, Retro Rides
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Catherine McKenney
Councillor, Somerset Ward, City of Ottawa
Stefania Capovilla
Owner, Society Salon and Blow Dry Bar
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Nazmi Fawaz
Owner, Bello Uomo
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Jeff O’Reilly
Member-at-Large
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Elayne Schwartz
Member-at-Large
Sparks Street BIA Meeting
Schedule 2022
* Combined BIA and Mall Authority Board Meeting
** Minutes Pending Approval
Meetings will be held virtually, unless otherwise stated.
Meetings are 1-1.5 hours in length depending on the agenda.
Members and public are welcome to attend and observe a meeting. To participate in the meeting or bring forth an item of discussion, members can request to be put on the agenda within five business days prior to the scheduled meeting date. Contact the Executive Director if you wish to observe or participate in a board meeting – kevin@sparkslive.com