Sarnia council has endorsed an application seeking funding support to install the first phase of servicing into the Sarnia Business and Research Park.
In a report to council, Economic Development Director Kelly Provost said the Southwestern Ontario Development Fund supports community-driven projects that foster economic growth and job creation.
The funding stream is capped at providing 50 per cent of the eligible project, up to a maximum grant request of $1.5 million.
Provost said adding servicing to municipally owned business parks is crucial to creating a competitive environment and attracting new investment. It also helps support growth of existing businesses.
Phase one would include a northbound road connection of water, sewer, electricity and natural gas lines off Wellington Street .
The total project is estimated to cost nearly $3.6 million.
------------
A $5 million curbside waste collection contract with Marcotte Disposal has been extended for two years.
Extending the contract -- which includes garbage, yard waste, brush and associated fuel costs -- to 2027 will give staff the ability to develop tenders to implement an organic waste program.
-----------
Funding has been approved to help refurbish the Ted Leaver Building in Canatara Park.
The historic log cabin was built in the early 1900s and donated to the Seaway Kiwanis Club in 1994.
It currently serves as the information centre for the animal farm and surrounding sites.
The proposed refurbishment includes necessary interior demolition work and abatement, upgrades to the HVAC, plumbing, and electrical systems of the building, as well as interior improvements such as new flooring, drywall, and counters.
The project, estimated to cost $75,000, will be funded through the Seaway Campus Reserve and the Parks Building Maintenance Operating account.
Council also approved the Seaway Kiwanis Club's non-exclusive use of the building for five years.
------------
E-ONE has been awarded a million dollar contract to build the Sarnia Fire and Rescue Service a new tanker.
The current apparatus has reached the end of its life.
In his report to council, Chief Jeff Weber said the new vehicle will be nearly an exact replica of what they have now.
It's expected it could take up to three years before the new apparatus is delivered. Council already approved funds in 2024 and 2025 to pay for it.
------------
A quote for the supply and delivery of three single axle plow trucks and one tandem axle plow truck has also been accepted.
The total contract with Viking-Cives Ltd. is valued at nearly $1.8 million.
---------------
The final draft of Sarnia's Urban Forest Management Plan (UFMP) has been posted to Speak Up Sarnia for feedback.
The plan sets out long-term goals and targets for maintenance, protection and enhancement of trees across the entire city.
It has been developed to help guide the city and its partners over the next 15 years and beyond.
The plan outlines what to do when responding to challenges facing the urban forest, like development, climate change and extreme weather, pests and invasive species.
Sarnia's urban forest covers about 17 per cent of the city and contains a mix of planted and naturally regenerated trees along city streets, in parks, on private properties and in natural forested areas.
--------------
A zoning bylaw amendment to allow aquamation at McCormack Funeral Home was approved.
The process is an alternative to traditional flame cremation.
Owner/Funeral Director Cameron McCormack previously told Sarnia News Today the body is dissolved in a solution that is 95 per cent water and five per cent alkaline -- rather than being consumed in fire -- making it more environmentally friendly.
Council deferred its decision on January 20 and requested more information from staff.
---------------
A hybrid voting model -- which offers both traditional paper ballots and internet voting -- has been approved for the 2026 municipal and school board election.
In 2022, nearly 22,000 total votes were cast. Close to 17,000 voted by internet and just over 5,000 voted by paper ballots in person.
----------------
City staff have been directed to implement the Victims of Chemical Valley Memorial Project in Centennial Park.
$150,000 has been approved from the capital infrastructure reserve.
A detailed design and tender package will be prepared.
It's hoped the contract can be awarded this summer and the project completed before the end of this year.
Chief Administrative Officer Chris Carter said he would keep council up to date on the project.
-------------------
Council also directed its integrity commissioner to investigate a complaint from Aamjiwnaang First Nation Chief Janelle Nahmabin.
She filed formal complaints following remarks made by city/county councillor Bill Dennis at a county council meeting last November.