The members of the District in 2021 saw many programs and although the events were not as numerous as in other years, but we were able to take part in several events and projects.
Stepping back to the beginning of the YBID, the lights project continues to keep our streets lit and help with safety for all in the District.
Our benches and garbage cans continue to give our shoppers and shop owners a place to sit and help keep the streets clean.
The past year the YBID flower pot program continued and included 20 new black pots with funding provided by the Painted Hand Community Development Corp.. Initially, this program went through some issues with the summer heat and from vandalism but the program prevailed and continued with much encouragement and support from the community.
Clean sweep also continued with some repairs to the carts but this program also received many compliments and continues to clean the District sidewalks to help keep our streets walkable and clean.
And, Clean Sweep winter continues for our District and the SIGN workers are out each snowfall cleaning to keep our sidewalks clear and safe and with a new funding sponsor by PHCDC we are able to continue.
Work started on fixing a couple of issues at the City Centre Park which included reviewing the needs to fix or replace the digital clock portion of the sundial and the restoration of the historic mural.
Help from the City and the community made possible the full restoration of the mural and we were lucky enough to include the work of the original artist Grant McLaughlin. With recommendations from him we searched for local artists to join him and pass along the care of the mural to them. Tonia Vermette and Angelina Kardynal came to the call and the restoration was complete on Aug. 21. A beautiful and again historic project the YBID was able to give to the community.
We cry from the roof tops to ‘shop Yorkton’ and 2021 was no exception. Shopping 20 per cent more in the local businesses brings millions to the local economy, keeping your neighbour, your friend, your family in business and able to support their families and the community.
Our local spotlight on business as the YBID Chats has seen over 30 interviews from our members and will stay on social media for all to view. We were able to visit many of the members this summer and just dropped in to say hi and see how things are going.
We had many challenges with COVID but also many accomplishments, additions, and growth even through the pandemic.
Our members are resilient, creative, and true entrepreneurs who adapt and survive.
Our Board of Directors was filled again for 2022 and we welcome Edith Montesclaros to fill one spot as all the others remain from the past Board. We hosted the AGM and Membership Appreciation at the Casino in Nov. and of course the beloved Santa Claus Parade was held in late Nov. with $3000 raised for charity and 650 vehicles attending.
And, have you seen the Highway #9 entrance and especially at night?
Wow! It is so nice to see the projects we use the membership money for come to fruition!
Also in partnership with the City we granted out $50,000 to businesses for façade improvements of YBID money matched by the City to five YBID members.
What’s to come for 2022?
We will continue all the programs, elect our Chair and Vice Chair for the new year, and continue the great work we do.
Just step out your business door and we are there, from streetlights, to benches, rest areas, numbered door stickers, street signs and much more. We are right in front of you.
Want to get involved? Call us at 306.783.9243, email us at exec.dir@yorktonbid.com, or message us on Facebook. Our ED Donna Brothwell will gladly take your call, ideas, and input towards our projects and more.
