Sarnia Council Briefs

Sarnia council has recognized the importance of the Celebration of Lights by unanimously agreeing to offset city fees for the next few years.

City staff said they would report back on the exact amount needed and what amount should be worked into consideration during the 2024 budget.

In 2019, council threw the event a lifeline by agreeing to provide a grant of $3,000 to help offset city fees until the end of the council term in 2022.

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A family pricing option of $6 has been approved for those attending the YMCA open swims at the Tecumseh Pool at Cox Youth Centre.

Sarnia council decided not to pursue offering a seasonal pass.

The YMCA said it would create logistical and accounting challenges if administered.

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City council has agreed to let the Sarnia Sting run the community suite program at Progressive Auto Sales Arena [PASA]  for the next year.

Councillor Brian White said he has no reason to believe the Sting wouldn't be fair and equitable in its administration.

Mayor Mike Bradley suggested a one year time frame in order to review who used the box in order to maintain the integrity of the community asset.

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Chrissy McRoberts has been appointed to the Sarnia Police Services Board.

She will take the seat vacated by Mayor Mike Bradley, who announced his abrupt departure last month.

In a lengthy letter to city council, Bradley accused the board's leadership of making decisions it wasn't empowered to make and doing so without public notice.

He said he planned to voice his concerns to the Solicitor General and suggest changes to the Police Act.

Police Board Chair Paul Wiersma said members of the board are expected to “inspire public confidence in the ability and integrity of the board.”

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City staff have been asked to prepare a report on whether, or not, to declare the parking lot at 115 Victoria Street North surplus.

The recommendation was made after the city received a request to purchase the parking lot to build homes for affordable or supportive housing.

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Sarnia's Chief Administrative Officer has been directed to compile information on possible funding sources for a new showmobile.

Council endorsed a motion from Mayor Mike Bradley asking that the details be included for consideration in the 2024 budget.

The effort to purchase a new showmobile was put on hold in April 2020 due to the uncertainty surrounding the impact of COVID-19.

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City council has agreed to end the freeze on advancing purchase and sale agreements within the Sarnia Business and Research Park.

Sarnia council also declared the Old London Road property surplus Monday, and directed staff to seek an appraisal of the land to determine its market value.

The land will be marketed for sale within 21 days.

Mayor Mike Bradley told Sarnia News Today there was a "very interested/active party in that particular piece of land."