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Business Improvement Area

Mission, Vision, Values, and Areas of Focus

MISSION
The Downtown Vernon Association (DVA) is devoted to fostering downtown business growth
and prosperity. With a relentless commitment to excellence, we champion our members,
forging strategic alliances with stakeholders and serve as a dynamic business resource for our
members. We cultivate an environment that empowers downtown economic prosperity.

VISION
To foster a safe and dynamic downtown neighbourhood, empowering economic prosperity
within the heart of the city.

VALUES
• Relationship Building:
Build relationships with DVA members, DVA staff and stakeholders based on
integrity and transparency.
• Community Connections:
Foster connections with, and within the business community, and provide valuable
resources for our members.
• Innovation and Heritage:
Embrace a balance between innovative business practices for progressive evolution
while maintaining a respect for Vernon’s heritage.

These values highlight the DVA's commitment to a positive work environment, transparent
relationships, community well-being, and a balance between innovation and respect for
tradition.

FOCUS AREAS
The DVA is considered, as are all Business Improvement Areas (BIA) by international definition, to be an Urban Place Management organization. This definition is consistent with our governing mandates by the
Province of BC and the City of Vernon. Our focus areas are:
1. Marketing, Communication, and Events.
2. Planning, Design, and Infrastructure.
3. Public Space Management and Operations.
4. Policy and Advocacy.
5. Economic Development.
6. Leadership Development.
7. Organization Management.

BIA

The Downtown Vernon Association is funded by a commercial tax levy on properties within the Business Improvement Area. This levy is a means of ensuring a secure and equitable financial operating base. The levy is similar to the promotion and maintenance fees per square foot of lease space assessed by shopping malls.

However, the mandate of the Downtown Vernon Association is considerably larger and multi-faceted. While the investment is comparably small, the results are noticeably significant.

Area Map

The BIA is divided into a primary and secondary area as shown on the map. The primary area (purple) has a slightly higher levy assessment than the secondary area (brown), based solely on proximity to 30th Avenue (Downtown Vernon’s main street). Primary properties have the additional benefit associated with the numerous events held on 30th Avenue, tourist attractions and additional street maintenance.

DVA BIA Map

Grow your business Downtown!

The Downtown Vernon Association wants your business to flourish. Vernon has a number of resources for new and existing businesses including;

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