News & Updates
Here you will find all sorts of cool things we are working on, important member events and information.
Member Meetings 
November 13, 2024
Thank you to everyone that attended the Annual Town Hall Meeting on Tuesday, November 12. As mentioned, we have held Tuesday, November 26 between 10:00am - 4:00pm for members to drop-in with any comments or questions.
To help us accommodate, please email [email protected] to confirm your attendance.
November 1, 2024
We have scheduled our Annual Town Hall Meeting for Tuesday, November 12th, at 2:00 p.m. At the meeting we will present the 2025 operating budget to the membership.
Please see below the Annual Town Hall package:
Members: Please RSVP by emailing Stefanie Golling
Should you have any questions regarding the 2025 budget please contact Linda Jutzi to set up a meeting.
Process
Finance Overview
An operating budget is prepared annually by the Executive Director and then reviewed for input and approval by the Board of Directors. Members are given the opportunity to provide feedback following the Annual Town Hall Meeting. Once feedback is collected and the Board of Directors has approved the budget, it is submitted to the City of Kitchener for Council approval.
Should you have any questions regarding the information above, please contact Linda Jutzi.
Safety & Security
October 29, 2024
The Downtown Safety Ambassador (DTK) Program
An initiative launched by the City as part of their broader efforts to address safety and well-being in the downtown core. This pilot program is designed to be both reactive and proactive, fostering a safe and welcoming environment for residents, visitors, and businesses alike. Their approach centers on balancing diverse needs—supporting vulnerable populations while ensuring the downtown remains a thriving space for commerce and tourism. The ambassadors work closely with community partners to create an environment where everyone feels safe and supported.
Proactive and Reactive Engagement The ambassadors serve as a non-enforcement arm of bylaw enforcement, focusing on two key areas:
Proactive Engagement: Ambassadors regularly patrol key areas, engage with individuals before issues arise, and provide resources to those in need. Their presence offers early intervention, helping to prevent situations from escalating.
Reactive Support: When concerns or disruptions occur, the ambassadors respond promptly, offering assistance and connection to services. They also help "move people along" when necessary, maintaining a respectful presence while de-escalating situations.
Downtown Safety Ambassadors The Downtown Safety Ambassadors currently service the core Tuesday to Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Please note these hours may change based on need and programming.
May 3, 2024
Exciting news - the City of Kitchener, is launching a new Downtown Safety Ambassador Program.
The intention of the program is to provide safety through relationship building. The Downtown Safety Ambassadors will offer directions, connect with DTK businesses, and work with street outreach, and other partners.
Depending on programming, the ambassadors will work from 1:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Tuesday to Saturday or Wednesday to Sunday and be easily identifiable with branded t-shirts and sweaters.
Should you require support, please reference the attached Who to Call Card.
Waterloo Region Police Service
Update from WRPS - September, 2023:
Cst. Matt Wilson has joined the team at Central Division, and will be a dedicated officer to the downtown core.
Statement from WRPS - April, 2020:
The Waterloo Regional Police Service continues to provide essential service in the Kitchener Downtown. Increased presence by our Community Engagement Officers, Central CORE Team, Community Resource Officers and Zone Officers is ongoing and we are responding to concerns throughout the downtown. I would encourage business to include messages about closures to be temporary and check your business regularly. It is important to report any activity, property damage or other issues promptly so we can respond.
Please reach out to us via Slack, email or by phone if you have any questions or comments.
Statement from WRPS - March, 2020:
"The Waterloo Regional Police Service continues to offer essential service to the community.
We understand business owners may be feeling anxious at this time of uncertainty. We want to reassure you that it is business as usual for us and officers will remain on patrol throughout Waterloo Region responding to calls for service.
This is a time when our community needs to come together, to help each other, and to watch out for one another. We remind business owners and residents of this community to report any suspicious activity or individuals to police."
Publications
October 29, 2024
Own It Magazine 2025
Share your story ideas for the next edition of Own It Magazine! We’re gearing up for the next edition of Own It and want to hear from you! As downtown business owners and community leaders, your stories and insights are vital to showcasing the authentic spirit of Downtown Kitchener. Do you have an inspiring story or a unique perspective, or do you know of something special happening in our community? We’re looking for ideas celebrating local collaboration, innovation, and the people shaping our downtown. Please submit your ideas and help us create another heartfelt edition of Own It that reflects the vibrancy of our community.
Got a story in mind? Please email Breanna Crossman. We’re gearing up for the next edition of Own It, a publication that celebrates the people, businesses, and experiences shaping Downtown Kitchener. Own It is all about telling authentic stories that reflect the innovation, creativity, and community spirit of our vibrant downtown.
As downtown business owners and community leaders, your stories and insights are vital to showcasing the essence of our community. Do you have an inspiring story, a unique perspective, or know of something special happening?
We are open to hearing from you! Share ideas that celebrate local collaboration, innovation, and the people who make downtown Kitchener such a dynamic and inclusive place. Help us create another edition of Own It that truly reflects our vibrant community.
May 25, 2024
The DTK Art Walk Field Guide
The DTK Art Walk Field Guide is live and printed. Explore every nook and cranny of our evolving neighbourhood. By scanning this QR Code you will have a trusty companion by your side, guiding you to hidden gems, historical landmarks, and some amazing local businesses. View the online version here: https://issuu.com/dtkownit/docs/field_guide_for_web.
January 19, 2024
The DTK Art Walk
We have some exciting news: the DTK Art Walk is getting a refresh, and we're launching a brand new field guide this spring. Get ready to discover even more hidden gems and unique art installations throughout the core.
October 18, 2022
The Collective: a beautiful publication showcasing all the fantastic businesses in DTK.
20,000 copies of The Collective were printed, with 18,000 directly delivered to postal codes in and surrounding DTK. With guides arranged to be available at 30 community centers in Kitchener, and in cultural hubs such as the Kitchener Market, KWAG, KPL and Centre in the Square.
We have a limited number of copies available to our businesses; if you would like to share a few with your customers, please contact Breanna Crossman.
View the online version here.
Online/Social Media Opportunities
Social Media Marketing
Members: We've made it super easy to have your events featured on our DTK social media platforms. Submit your event coverage form (linked below) at least two weeks in advance, and we'll take care of the rest. Together, let's promote the vibrant events in our community.
Google & Website Optimization
Our community can help support your business online by leaving reviews and providing a star rating. Keeping up with these reviews and relevant information on your accounts is important.
Follow the link attached to learn a few tips on how to keep your online presence relevant.
DTK Social Media Guide
Looking for a few more ways to engage with your audience? Click the link attached to view our social media guide.
Keeping Downtown Clean
2024
Graffiti Removal Request and/or Notification Form
We truly appreciate your dedication to keeping our downtown area vibrant and beautiful. Together, we can create a community that embraces transformation and takes pride in its appearance.
We understand that graffiti can be a concern for residents and business owners alike. By addressing issues like graffiti promptly and effectively, we can create a welcoming environment for everyone. Please complete our online form below, and our team of dedicated professionals will carefully review your submission, and should the submission meet the program requirements, we will take the necessary steps to remove the graffiti.
Sidewalk Power Washing
In order to accommodate the power washing of sidewalks and granite planters, a noise exemption has been granted to:
The City of Kitchener and their contractor, Wash Worx to complete the power washing of sidewalks from April 25 to October 6, 2024 between the hours of 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.:
“Wash Sessions - Downtown Sidewalks” Sidewalks and granite planters on King Street (from Francis St to Cedar St), Lot 9 Moloks.
Tentative dates are below for the season:
- April 29 – May 17 – King Street - Francis St to Cedar St, Queen Street – Charles St to Duke St, City Hall/Carl Zehr Square, Moloks ( King St, Lot 9, Market Ln)
- June 17 – June 29 – King St - Francis St to Cedar St, Queen Street – Charles St to Duke St, City Hall/Carl Zehr Square, Moloks ( King St, Lot 9, Market Ln), (must be complete before July 1)
- July 22 – Aug 2 – King Street - Francis St to Cedar St, Queen Street – Charles St to Duke St, City Hall/Carl Zehr Square, Moloks ( King St, Lot 9, Market Ln) ,(must be complete before Aug. 2)
- Sept 23 – Oct 3 – King Street - Francis St to Cedar St, Queen Street – Charles St to Duke St, City Hall/Carl Zehr Square, Moloks ( King St, Lot 9, Market Ln), (must be complete before Oct.4)
Downtown Clean Team 2
The Downtown Kitchener BIA has contracted the Working Centre to collect curbside waste from King Street on weekdays after 4:00 pm and Saturdays.
Should you require additional support, please reference the attached Who to Call Card.
Business Training Resources
May 30, 2023
Preparing Ontario Workplaces: St. John Ambulance's OWNT program offers vital naloxone training and resources
St. John Ambulance’s Ontario Workplace Naloxone Training (OWNT) Program can provide businesses with information about their resources available to Ontario workplaces as the new Ontario legislation implementation date approaches.
As of June 1, 2023, the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA) will require that naloxone be available in some workplaces in case a worker has an opioid poisoning. Not all employers have to comply with the OHSA requirements to provide naloxone in the workplace. Employers must provide a naloxone kit when an employer becomes aware, or ought reasonably to be aware, of the following scenarios:
There is a risk of a worker opioid overdose. There is a risk that the worker overdoses while in a workplace where they perform work for the employer. The risk is posed by a worker who performs work for the employer.
If all of these scenarios are present, the employer must comply with the OHSA requirements to provide naloxone in the workplace. If any one of these scenarios are not present, an employer does not need to comply with the OHSA requirements to provide naloxone in the workplace.
A total of 3,556 apparent opioid poisoning deaths occurred in Canada in 2022 (January – June), and 98% of those deaths were accidental. Most accidental apparent opioid toxicity deaths were among individuals aged 20 to 59 years.
St. John Ambulance is a proud program provider for the Ontario Workplace Naloxone Program. Their role is to support employers that are required under the OHSA to provide a naloxone kit in their workplace by offering free workplace naloxone training for up to two (2) workers and/or one (1) free nasal spray naloxone kit per workplace location. For more information on SJA’s Ontario Workplace Naloxone Program, please visit: Ontario’s Workplace Naloxone Program | St. John Ambulance Canada (sja.ca)
For more information about the Ontario Legislation, please visit: Naloxone in the workplace | ontario.ca.
Streetscape Improvements
March 13, 2023
Tree & Paver Replacement Project
The City of Kitchener is undertaking work along King Street to replace trees and improve the paved surface between the sidewalk and roadway. There are many benefits to this work, including:
Replaced aging electrical equipment and damaged or uneven pavers Improved performance of the planters and tree wells Easier management and better health of trees along King Street Improved installation and maintenance of horticulture displays in planters.
The first part of this project is already complete. It took place fall 2022 between Water Street and Ontario Street. The final part takes place spring 2023 between College Street to Young Street.
This work will take place from March 17 to the end of May, as follows:
- King Street, the south side opposite Carl Zehr Square, College to Young (Area 3)
- King Street, north side Young to Ontario (Area 5)
- King Street, south side at 125 King St. W. (Area 2)
The work in Area 3 involves concrete work and may be subject to some weather delays if we have a particularly cold end to winter.
How you might be affected
- There will be no full street closures. We will sometimes need to close a lane for a short time to allow for the delivery of construction materials.
- We will close lanes intermittently as needed for short periods of time. As described in the image above, traffic control personnel will be present to direct traffic flow during those times.
- Parking may be affected during construction. Businesses along this part of King Street should tell delivery services about this work and the effect on parking and lane closures.
- Public access to businesses and residences will be maintained at all times. But temporary adjustments to the pedestrian routes will occur as the work progresses.
- Your garbage collection may be affected. In this case, take your garbage either across the street where work is not happening or to the nearest side street for collection.
- Patio installations for 2023 in the areas above will take place following the completion of construction.
- The current design of King Street will not change because of this work.
Regional and Municipal Updates
January 26, 2024
The Future of DTK Garbage Collection
The Region of Waterloo is undertaking a study as the contract for picking up waste in Downtown Kitchener is up for renewal in March of 2026. We believe that change could be on the horizon. our perspective as a business owner is crucial, considering the potential impact of these changes on your operations, waste disposal, recycling challenges, and the absence of an organic waste program.
Recommendations and findings collected by Regional staff and Dillion Consulting will be presented at Regional Council this spring to endorse future service levels.
Waterloo Region Extreme Heat and Cold Partnership
June 14, 2024 Region of Waterloo Public Health will be sharing information related to the heat daily beginning Sunday on Instagram and Facebook (@ROWPublicHealth). We encourage you to repost/share this content on your own social media channels as well.
OVB Details Location: Southern portions of southwestern Ontario. Impacts: Very high risk of heat related illness, including possible heat stroke. Confidence: Medium. Description: A multi-day heat event is likely starting Monday continuing through next week. Daytime highs on Monday will be in the low thirties, with humidex values near forty. Overnight low temperatures are expected to be in the low twenties. This heat event is expected to last until the end of the week and possibly longer.
Location: Portions of southwestern and eastern Ontario as well as the Golden Horseshoe and southern portions of central Ontario. Impacts: Very high risk of heat related illness, including possible heat stroke. Confidence: Medium. Description: A multi-day heat event is likely starting Monday continuing through next week. Daytime highs on Monday will be in the low thirties, with humidex values in the mid to high thirties, while low temperatures will be near 20°C. This heat event is expected to last until the end of the week.
January 16, 2024
Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECC) has issued an Extreme Cold Warning for Waterloo Region. Please see notice attached. WR Extreme Heat & Cold Partnership
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