Sarnia's Planning and Building department will now offer pre-application consultation protocol to customers at a fee of $250 effective January 1, 2016.
In the Development Services Review, customers asked for, and welcomed a fee for improved advisory services. Director Jane Cooper says it will give developers comfort before submitting and investing in their applications. Staff will continue to provide informal verbal advice free of charge on request.
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Community consultation meeting protocols for planning applications were endorsed by Sarnia City Council effective January 1, 2016. The protocols, to be listed on the city's website and social media, provides clear guidance to all parties regarding the expectations for planning-related community meetings.
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Sarnia City Council cancelled the Brownfields Programs due to lack of use and available funding.
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A delegation by the Sarnia-Lambton Chamber of Commerce offered budget input to Sarnia City Council. Representative Michael Kooy offered three pieces of advice: to think big with economic development, to consider zero-based budgeting, and to develop alternative services that generate revenue. Kooy says the chamber is encouraged by council's embraced culture of change and is willing to work together on the budget.
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The Sarnia Historical Society is requesting $6,000 from Sarnia City Council for operational costs. In a delegation, President Ron RealeSmith says the cost was supplied to the society in the past and they are asking for it to be restored. RealeSmith shared progress on their latest accomplishments and goals for the future. The historical society will provide detail of projects in writing for budget deliberations December 1st.
