BONNYVILLE – The Town of Bonnyville may revisit its business beautification program as it prepares for downtown revitalization, with concerns that existing financial assistance is no longer enough to cover the rising cost of storefront improvements.

The discussion took place during Council’s October 28 special meeting, when Community Futures Lakeland provided an update on its programs and the businesses receiving support.

Five businesses were identified as having received financing through the beautification initiative this year, including Pam Gibbs Professional Accounting, Bushels of Fun, AOK Shoes, Simply Right Accounting and Buster Pizza.

The improvements range from new signage to exterior building upgrades.

However, Community Futures Executive Director Corey Dows told Council that the current funding structure can limit what businesses are able to accomplish.

The program was described as offering a $2,000 grant alongside an $8,000 loan.

With construction and signage costs continuing to rise, he suggested the Town consider increasing the amount available to businesses or restructuring the financing.

Connecting storefront improvements with Main Street plans

Council also discussed how the beautification program could complement the Town’s planned Main Street revitalization.

Councillor Sharun asked whether Community Futures was coordinating with administration to ensure business improvements would align with the Town’s broader downtown vision.

Dows confirmed that discussions had taken place with administration and that Community Futures would work with the Town once more specific design expectations, including potential colour schemes, were established.

Administration acknowledged concerns that the existing program may not provide enough funding to make a significant difference to some storefronts.

The Town is considering a review of its grant programs, including the beautification initiative, to determine whether changes could make the assistance more attractive and effective for local businesses.

Potential adjustments could be considered for 2028.

No changes approved yet

While Council discussed possible improvements to the program, no new funding structure was approved during the meeting.

Community Futures indicated it would be willing to work with administration and provide feedback from business owners about the current program.

The discussion adds another consideration to Bonnyville’s downtown revitalization efforts: ensuring businesses have practical opportunities to improve their properties alongside planned municipal investments.