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By rdnewsNOW staff

28 voted in favour

Downtown businesses vote in favour of disestablishing the BIA

Mar 17, 2026 | 9:22 AM

Downtown businesses have voted in favour of the disestablishment of the Downtown Business Improvement Area (BIA).

This result came after in-person voting concluded on March 16, with 28 out of 43 levy payers voting in favour of the disestablishment. On the flip side, 15 voted against the disestablishment.

A total of 43 out of 374 eligible levy-paying businesses voted, representing an 11 per cent turnout.

As a result, the City of Red Deer must proceed with the legislative process to disestablish the BIA, in accordance with the Municipal Government Act.

The city says second and third readings of the bylaw for the disestablishment will be brought to council on April 14 during the regular meeting.

28 voted in favour

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Once the third reading is passed, the bylaw will be adopted, and the official date of disestablishment will be May 27, 2026.

“This vote provided eligible taxpayers with the opportunity to directly participate in a decision affecting the Downtown Business Improvement Area,” said Catherine Jackson, returning officer at the City of Red Deer. “The voting process was administered in accordance with provincial legislation and ensured eligible voters had the opportunity to cast their ballots.”

Without the BIA, the city says it’s committed to continuing the services, programs, and events in the downtown. They are carrying out duties previously held by the Clean Team and will continue to keep the downtown clean and safe for everyone.

“This milestone provides important clarity for downtown businesses and the community,” said Bobby-Jo Stannard, manager of safe & healthy communities. “Our priority is ensuring continuity of services and support in the downtown while we continue working with businesses and community partners to strengthen the future of downtown Red Deer.”