Delta council has agreed to initiate the process to renew the Tsawwassen Business Improvement Area (TBIA) for another five-year term, extending its operations from July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2031, unless a formal opposition threshold is met.
The TBIA was first established by City of Delta council in 1991 through a bylaw and has been continuously renewed in five-year increments since then. The renewal request was submitted by the Tsawwassen Business Improvement Society, which operates under the name Tsawwassen Business Improvement Association.
Under provincial legislation, a business improvement area can move forward unless at least 50 per cent of affected property owners—representing a minimum of 50 per cent of the total assessed property value within the area—formally oppose the renewal. If that threshold is not reached, council may adopt the renewal bylaw.
A business improvement area allows a municipality to provide enhanced services aimed at supporting local businesses, including marketing, promotional activities, streetscape improvements, and revitalization initiatives. These services are funded through a special property levy applied to properties within the designated boundary.
According to a report presented to council, 133 properties are currently subject to the TBIA levy. The proposed five-year operating budget for the upcoming term totals $846,705, covering programs related to business promotion, beautification, and advocacy.
The report also highlights feedback from a 2025 member survey, which found that Tsawwassen businesses strongly value collaboration, collective advocacy, efforts to increase customer traffic, and continued investment in beautification and marketing initiatives.
If no sufficient opposition is received during the statutory notice period, the renewal will proceed, allowing the TBIA to continue its role in supporting and promoting the Tsawwassen commercial district through to mid-2031.
