HAMILTON, ON – April 14, 2026 – The Ottawa Street Business Improvement Area (BIA) has announced a transition in its board leadership following the discovery of financial irregularities. During a meeting on March 22, 2026, Michael Carruth was removed from his position as Chair of the Board due to the suspected misuse of BIA funds. Thomas Lute has been appointed as the new Chair, and Ariane Clark has assumed the role of Vice Chair.
The discrepancies were initially identified by the BIA’s accountant. In response, the Board took immediate action to safeguard the organization’s financial accounts, revoke the former Chair’s access to the BIA facilities, and notify the authorities. A formal police report was filed March 23rd, the day after the emergency meeting. The Hamilton Police Service and the city’s auditor general are currently investigating the matter.
Despite the ongoing investigation, the Board assures its members that core programming – including the Sew Hungry food truck festival, the annual sidewalk sale, community Halloween events, and street beautification initiatives – is not expected to be impacted.
The Ottawa Street BIA is committed to operating with complete transparency and accountability to its members, businesses, and the Hamilton community. The investigation is ongoing and the Board does not have any additional information at this time. The organization will continue to follow the lead of the investigating authorities and will provide further updates when appropriate.
Media Contact:
Thomas Lute
Chair, Ottawa Street BIA
thomas@theargyle.ca