BIA — Belmont Village

At the Belmont Village Business Improvement Area (BIA), our vision is to transform Belmont Village into a delightful destination that captivates and surprises everyone who visits.

Ideally located between Kitchener and Waterloo, our village captures the essence of both cities, offering a harmonious mix of experiences.

In realizing this vision, the BIA commits to enhancing the area by managing essential services, beautifying common spaces, and marketing the distinct specialties of our business members.

We design events that attract visitors put a spotlight on our village, thereby contributing positively to our local community and creating an inviting atmosphere for like-minded businesses.

Through these efforts, we strive to ensure that Belmont Village is not only a thriving business hub but also an inspiring place to visit and live.

Your Belmont Village BIA Board Members

JD Zehr

Chair | Belmont Village BIA
Chair | Belmont Village Expansion Committee
As chair of the BIA I take great pride and responsibility in fostering the growth and long term sustainability of Belmont Village.
The Village holds a very special place in my, and my family's hearts as one of the first Zehrs Markets was located right in the village.
Growing up in the area I have many memories tied to the Village. I believe it’s our BIA responsibility to ensure many more memories can be made here. We can do this by ensuring the businesses and the people who work, shop, eat and visit Belmont Village can thrive for generations to come.
Valeria Rigler

Vice Chair | Belmont Village BIA
Valeria is the friendly face behind Danval Inc. in Kitchener. With over 25 years of international accounting experience, she's your trusted partner in helping small and medium-sized businesses thrive in the Waterloo Region. Valeria's not just about crunching numbers; she's passionate about supporting arts organizations and promoting lifelong learning.
As the Vice Chair of the Belmont Village BIA, Valeria brings her exceptional leadership skills and a knack for fostering community connections. Valeria is always making a positive impact on the community through her active volunteerism.
Margaret Tofflemire

Treasurer | Belmont Village BIA
Chair | Belmont Village Finance Committee
Margaret was a property owner and is a business owner in Belmont Village.
She has been a member of the BIA for 14 years.
Linda Nelson

Secretary | Belmont Village BIA
Linda is a property owner and former successful business owner in Belmont Village.
Member of the Belmont Village BIA for 25 years. She also loves gardening!
Sylvia Horn

Director | Belmont Village BIA
Chair | Belmont Village BIA Event Committee
Sylvia graduated from Laurier University with degrees in Anthropology and English.
Sylvia worked as a Director of Operations for a local retail chain. In 2015 she decided to start her own business and opened Gifted. The shop expanded and moved to its current location at 740 Belmont in 2021.
Sylvia joined the Belmont Village BIA in 2023 and became a Board member in 2024.
Margaret Johnston

Ward 8 Councillor
Margaret is in her second term as Ward 8 Kitchener Councillor for Westmount and Belmont Village neighbourhoods and is a proud member of the Belmont BIA.
Margaret loves Belmont Village and encourages everyone to #ShopLocal #SupportSmallBusiness and visit our charming Village where you can support your neighbours!

Who we are

Our BIA is composed of local businesses within a specifically designated area, overseen by the City of Kitchener.

We are a working board, entirely volunteer-led and comprised of dedicated individuals who give their time and effort to support our community. Our Board of Management includes eight enthusiastic members, featuring an executive committee with a Chair, Vice Chair, Treasurer, Secretary, and a local Ward Councillor.

At the heart of our BIA, we host dedicated sub-committees focusing on Marketing, Beautification, and Events, each committed to enhancing our community's charm and appeal. Join us as we work together to make Belmont Village a delightful place to shop, dine, work, and explore!