Sarnia council has approved changes to improve its buy-Canadian policy.
The new measures increase the city's invitational competition procurement threshold for construction procurements from nearly $134,000 to just over $334,000. Staff made the recommendation after being asked to review its procurement policy to ensure it was focused on buying Canadian goods and services first.
Acting City Solicitor Randi Kalar said the new threshold aligns with the Canadian Free Trade Agreement (CFTA) and gives the city with more discretion to buy local and buy Canadian.
City/County Councillor Bill Dennis opposed the move. He appeared to confuse the CFTA with the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (USMCA) and spiraled into a rant about eight minutes into the discussion. You can view the discussion starting at the 2 hour 34 minute mark in the virtual broadcast.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PmyQHYptfWU&t=9581s
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The City of Sarnia is keeping its current dog and cat permit limits, but residents can still apply for a third dog permit.
Dog owners will be investigated for a prior history of complaints, surrounding neighbours will be consulted, and a user fee will be associated with the process to off-set costs associated with the third permit.
The current Sarnia cat bylaw allows two per adult on the premises, rather than per household.
Increasing the limits was proposed in January as a way to support the humane society and rescue organizations.
Sarnia and District Humane Society Board of Directors Chair Bob Farlow supported the recommendation made to council on Monday.
"By requiring a permit for a third dog, the bylaw ensures that applicants demonstrate the capacity to manage additional pets safely and responsibly, fostering a culture of thoughtful pet care," Farlow said in a letter to council. "The current policy reflects a thoughtful compromise that considers the needs of pet owners, the welfare of animals, and the broader interests of the community."
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Sarnia's new Urban Forest Management Plan has been endorsed in principle.
Staff were directed to advance the multi-year implementation plan through operations and the annual capital budgeting process.
The plan sets out long-term goals and targets for maintenance, protection and enhancement of trees across the entire city. It was 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.
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Following a one-year pilot project, Sarnia council has decided to permanently allow the use of e-bikes on trails and pathways within the city.
E-bikes and bicycles are still not permitted to operate on sidewalks.
The cost of new etiquette signage will be accommodated within the current approved operating budget.
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Staff have been directed to accept a donation from the Pat and Val Gladwish Foundation and proceed with a tender package for construction of a splash pad in Bright's Grove.
It will be built in Kenwick Park, complimenting existing park amenities.
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Building investment needs at Pat Stapleton Arena have been referred to 2026 budget deliberations for consideration.
Council received a report in its agenda outlining the need for approximately $10 million in repairs.
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Birnam Excavating has been awarded phase two of the Vidal Street Watermain Project.
Just over $1.9 million will be spent to replace the existing watermain on Vidal Street South, Beaver Circle, Wahboose Circle, and a portion of Lasalle Line.
The project will improve water pressure in the area.
The scope also includes asphalt replacement.
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Van Bree Infrastructure was awarded a $3.47 million contract for the reconstruction of Minto and Germain Street.
Mayfair Drive from Tweedsmuir to Minto Street, Minto Street from Mayfair to Germain Street and Germain Street from Minto Street to Indian Road will receive new watermains, storm and sanitary sewers, roads, curbs and sidewalks.
The sanitary force main from the pumping station will also be replaced along those streets, continuing through Germain Park to East Street.
The project is part of the larger flood mitigation work in the Coronation Park area.