Meet the Downtown Brockville BIA Team

The Downtown Brockville BIA is guided by a team of a staff and a volunteer Board of Management committed to strengthening our downtown business community.

Office Staff

Jennifer Robinson

Jennifer Robinson is a Brockville native and a respected leader in the local business community. As the owner of Savvy Footwear and Fashion, she brings over 18 years of hands on experience in retail, including more than a decade as an owner operator.

She has led all aspects of her business, from merchandising and financial management to team leadership and marketing. Her practical, day to day experience gives her a strong understanding of the realities and opportunities facing local businesses.

Jennifer’s connection to downtown Brockville runs deep. Having served on the DBIA Board for 10 years, she brings both insight and a forward thinking perspective to her role as Executive Director.

Jennifer is known for her strong work ethic, collaborative approach, and ability to build meaningful relationships. She is focused on supporting business growth, strengthening the downtown core, and fostering a vibrant, connected community.

Email: jrobinson@downtownbrockville.com

Executive Director

Ainsley Brown

Ainsley Brown is the Community Engagement and Outreach Coordinator for Downtown Brockville BIA, where she leads efforts to promote local businesses and strengthen downtown’s presence through strategic marketing and community focused initiatives.

She plays a key role in developing campaigns, managing communications, and supporting events that highlight the energy and character of downtown Brockville. Her work helps connect local merchants with the broader community in meaningful and engaging ways.

Ainsley is known for her creative approach, collaborative mindset, and strong attention to detail. She is passionate about building connections and contributing to a downtown that continues to grow, evolve, and thrive.

Email: ainsley@downtownbrockville.com

Community Engagement & Outreach Coordinator

Business Communications Coordinator

Eleanor Taylor

Eleanor Taylor is the Business Communications Coordinator for Downtown Brockville BIA, supporting clear and consistent communication between the organization, its members, and the broader community.

She plays a key role in coordinating internal updates, external messaging, and administrative communications that keep downtown initiatives organized and informed. Her work helps ensure information flows smoothly across projects, events, and partnerships.

Eleanor is known for her strong attention to detail, organized approach, and reliability. She supports the day to day operations of the BIA while helping maintain a professional, connected, and well informed downtown business community.

Email: info@downtownbrockville.com

Board of Directors

Russ Disotell

CHAIR OF BOARD
Russ serves as Chair of the Downtown Brockville BIA Board of Management, bringing a deep commitment to arts, culture, and local heritage to his leadership role. A respected local writer, Russ has long been engaged in strengthening Brockville’s cultural identity. He has served on the Heritage Board, the Brockville Public Library Board, and the Downtown Brockville BIA, contributing thoughtful governance and community perspective. Russ is also the facilitator of Brockville Culture Days and the author of a book focused on Brockville’s history and character. His leadership reflects a strong belief in the power of culture, storytelling, and collaboration to shape a vibrant downtown.
Natasha Annable

VICE CHAIR
Natasha serves as Vice Chair of the Downtown Brockville BIA Board of Management, bringing entrepreneurial insight and hands on business experience to the role. She is the owner of Flair FX and Ontario Approved Professionals, both based in downtown Brockville, and is also an independent Scentsy representative. As a multi business owner, Natasha understands the realities of operating in the downtown core and is passionate about supporting fellow entrepreneurs. Her leadership on the Board reflects her commitment to business growth, collaboration, and building a strong and successful downtown community.
Stefanie Chauvin

DIRECTOR
Stefanie is a valued member of the Downtown Brockville BIA Board of Management and brings extensive leadership experience to the table. As General Manager of Home Hardware and River West Co., she offers strong operational insight and a deep understanding of retail and customer service. Stefanie is actively involved on multiple boards throughout the city, contributing her time, expertise, and wide network of community connections. Her collaborative approach and commitment to Brockville’s growth make her an exceptional advocate for a vibrant and successful downtown.
Les Winters

DIRECTOR
Les is a long standing downtown business owner and an active member of the Downtown Brockville BIA Board of Management. As the owner of Fat Les on King, Fat Les Waterfront Patio, and multiple Fat Les chip wagons, he brings extensive hands on experience in hospitality, events, and seasonal operations. Les is also one of the key organizers behind Poutine Feast, helping to deliver one of the region’s most recognized and well attended events. His involvement stretches beyond Brockville, with strong community ties from Kemptville through Brockville and into surrounding areas. Les brings energy, entrepreneurial drive, and regional connections that support both downtown vitality and broader community growth.
Tracy Hughes

DIRECTOR
Tracy is the owner of Flutter N’ Fly Makers Cove and a dedicated member of the Downtown Brockville BIA Board of Management. As a local entrepreneur, she brings creative energy and a strong understanding of small business operations to the Board. In addition to running her downtown retail space, Tracy operates a home day care and actively participates in markets and community events throughout Brockville and the surrounding areas. Her involvement across multiple sectors reflects her commitment to supporting local makers, families, and community connection. Tracy’s hands on experience and grassroots engagement contribute meaningfully to the vibrancy of Downtown Brockville.
Annie Ly

DIRECTOR
Annie is the owner of Sweet Ofelia Café & Market and a dedicated member of the Downtown Brockville BIA Board of Management. After moving to Brockville from Toronto to follow her dream of owning a café, Annie opened Sweet Ofelia, creating a welcoming space where people can connect, enjoy delicious coffee, handcrafted sandwiches, pastries, bubble tea, and discover unique market items from around the world. As a local entrepreneur, she brings creativity and community-minded thinking to the Board, drawing on her fine art background and passion for fostering connections through food, culture, and shared experiences.
Heather Ferguson

DIRECTOR
Heather is the owner of The Crafty Potter and a Director on the Downtown Brockville BIA Board of Management. As a creative entrepreneur, she has built a welcoming space that celebrates handmade pottery, artistic expression, and hands on experiences. Heather is passionate about supporting local creativity and providing opportunities for people of all ages to explore their artistic side. Through her business and her role on the Board, she contributes to the cultural vibrancy and continued growth of Downtown Brockville.
Phil Deery

CITY COUNCIL REPRESENTATIVE
Phil Deery is the City Council Representative on the Downtown Brockville BIA Board of Management, providing an important link between the municipality and our downtown business community. In his role on Brockville City Council, Phil brings a strong understanding of municipal priorities, economic development, and long term planning that directly impact the growth and success of downtown. As a member of the Board, he offers valuable insight into City initiatives and helps ensure collaboration between Council and the BIA.