The Downtown Orillia Management Board (DOMB) is undergoing changes following the resignation of BIA manager, Dina Hawker.
Following Hawker’s last day in her role on Sept. 8, the DOMB reduced its in-person office hours beginning Sept. 11.
“Throughout this transition, there will be adjustments to our office operations. Starting Sept. 11, the office will operate with reduced in-person availability,” said a DOMB press release. “Instructions for submitting downtown dollars, parking tickets, and limited drop-in hours will be posted on our website once they become available.”
During a special meeting, DOMB officials resolved against immediately hiring a new BIA (business improvement area) manager, instead opting to “embark on a strategic re-evaluation of BIA processes and priorities before appointing the next (manager),” the release said.
“This initiative will allow directors to refine BIA strategies and better align them with provincial standards for (BIAs) and overarching objectives,” the release said.
In the release, Hawker said she is moving on to a new role, and has “mixed emotions” about her resignation.
“This decision was made after careful consideration, and I am committed to ensuring a seamless transition by working closely with the board and staff to hand over responsibilities, ongoing projects, and processes," she said.
The DOMB extended “sincere appreciation” for Hawker’s work in her role.
“Her efforts have considerably enhanced relationships with the city, the OPP, various community groups, vendors, organizations, and the public's perception of downtown. We commend Dina for her invaluable contributions,” the release said.
Michael Fredson, the chair of the DOMB, did not respond to a request for a comment.
