Sarnia City Council has committed to a partnership with Middlesex County Connect to contribute to the intercommunity bus service between Sarnia and London.
As part of the partnership, the city will contribute nearly $380,000 over five years to maintain the service.
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City council has adopted a community rink program and associated policy as a pilot for the upcoming winter season.
In September, council asked staff to make changes to the program, which would allow “backyard” rinks to be installed in city-owned neighbourhood park spaces.
One of the guidelines removed was the requirement for the applicant to provide proof of insurance of no less than $2 million.
If there is a claim for injuries alleging negligence in the design, construction, or maintenance of the outdoor rink, the city’s property and/or commercial general liability insurance policies may be engaged.
A report to council said although this would not have an immediate impact to the city’s insurance premiums, there may be an increase as claims arise.
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Traffic calming measures will be installed on Trudeau Drive between Finch Drive and Confederation Street.
City staff conducted a review after community members submitted requests in April.
The measures include urban shoulders, on-street traffic calming bollards (plastic posts) that can be installed at intervals, and temporary bump-outs at D’Andrea Trail.
City/County Councillor Bill Dennis was the only one to oppose the measures, claiming they would only create more issues. However, General Manager of Engineering and Operations David Jackson said while there may be some initial confusion, overall, traffic calming measures do improve safety.
City staff said the costs can be accommodated within the current approved operating budget. It's expected that line painting and bollard installations will be completed in spring of 2026.
A review was also conducted for Cameron Street, between Russell Street and Mitton Street, but the area did not meet the required threshold for traffic calming interventions.
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The City of Sarnia will support the Town of Petrolia and City of Brantford in advocating for provincial scrap metal legislation and bail system reform.
City/County Councillor Chrissy McRoberts introduced the motion, which received unanimous support.
"Hopefully with that, the smaller stealing of items, like say a bell at our Kinsmen Club or whatnot, that type of thing for scrap -- as soon as they know they have to show ID and be accountable for what they're trying to cash in, that will slow that down a little bit," McRoberts said.
Council's support will be sent to MP Marilyn Gladu, MPP Bob Bailey, Attorney General of Ontario Doug Downey, and Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada Sean Fraser.
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Councillor David Boushy has been appointed acting mayor, effective November 17 until November 14, 2026.
The acting mayor is responsible for presiding at meetings when the mayor is absent.
Councillor Brian White has served in the role since November 18, 2024.
