The BIAs have a two-fold mandate:
- To oversee the improvement, beautification and maintenance of municipally-owned land, buildings and structures in the area above and beyond that provided by the municipality generally, and;
- To promote the area as a business and shopping district.
In carrying out these responsibilities, the Downtown Elmira BIA and St. Jacobs BIA have become involved in numerous activities, which often include:
- Marketing: Understanding the customer base, and promoting the shopping area effectively.
- Business Recruitment: Working with property owners to help ensure that available space is occupied, and that an optimum business/service mix is achieved and maintained.
- Streetscape Improvement and Other Amenities: Providing for more customer-friendly lighting, signage, street furniture, planters, banners and sidewalk treatment.
- Seasonal Decorations: Creating a unique and pleasant environment for customers and staff of all businesses, retail and non-retail, through the use of decorations that are appropriate to the season and holiday.
- Special Events: Organizing and partnering in special events that highlight unique attributes of the area and increase customer visits.