Types of Members

Here’s a full explanation of the two types of BNIA memberships available. The majority of our members are “full” members (about 220 annually); the smaller component is our “associate” members, numbering about 50 in 2024.

Full members

Property owners in Bayfield-Nares can become full members of the BNIA (as can non-property owners). Most partners have a single membership (both their names are listed in the Directory with their property). This also applies to some co-owner siblings. Where more than two siblings own a property, we suggest multiple full memberships and/or associate memberships.

• Full members enjoy voice and one vote at meetings of the BNIA and can serve on the Board of Directors
• Only the named full member or co-owner may vote at annual meetings, and they need to decide which of them exercises that right
• Each full membership includes affiliation to the Georgian Bay Association (GBA, our larger federation of cottager’s associations) and $65 of your BNIA membership dues go to the GBA
• Full members receive the informative GBA Update newsletter mailings three times per year
• Full members receive all BNIA communications, including a copy of the annual Directory

Associate members

Associate Memberships are available for family or other members who share or visit a property with a Full Member (often a next-generation family member). Associate memberships are always linked to a full membership.

• Associate members receive all BNIA communications, including a copy of the annual Directory and Yearbook
• Associate members do not receive the GBA Update newsletter mailings
• Associate members are welcome (and encouraged!) to attend BNIA Annual Meetings, but they don’t enjoy voting privileges

Membership costs

Here are the annual dues payable to the BNIA to cover membership:

• Full Membership: $80
• Associate Membership: $30

Dues payable annually

Dues are payable once per calendar year. We encourage all members to pay promptly upon receiving their notice in January of each year, and definitely before the summer season. Your membership applies to a calendar year, not for a 12-month period after you pay your dues.