The City of Sarnia will not contribute $25,000 at this time to provide relief for Fort McMurray residents. City council voted 5-3 Monday to table Mayor Mike Bradley's motion until The County of Lambton's efforts were known. Mayor Bradley and Councillors Andy Bruziewicz and Mike Kelch voted against tabling the motion. The Mayor abruptly left the meeting after the vote, asking Councillor Bruziewicz to finish chairing the meeting.
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Councillor Brian White and the Sarnia Environmental Advisory Committee formally presented the 2016 Go Green Awards to six local individuals and groups. The awards aim to promote environmental stewardship in the city as well as recognize and celebrate successes.
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The International Powerboat Festival has been granted use of the George St. parking lot and up to $8,065 in relief assistance from the city for the next five years subject to annual review. Councillor Bev MacDougall says available funds are meant to support new events, not a festival in its sixth year. Spokesperson Dave McPhail says the popular event creates jobs, has a great economic impact, and supports local charities. It takes place from August 12-14 this summer.
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A by-law amendment has been approved on Christina St. to implement a 50km/h zone from Cathcart Blvd. to Errol Rd. W. It has been referred to the County of Lambton for approval.
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Sarnia council has approved a budget strategy to deal with 2015 preliminary year-end results, which include a water deficit of nearly $869,000. City Engineer Andre Morin says that number is driven by overtime and watermain breaks. Councillor Anne-Marie Gillis suggested public education could help improve the number of frozen pipe incidents.
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A pilot project will implement charging stations for mobility devices at eight locations within Sarnia and Pt. Edward. Councillors Matt Mitro and Bev MacDougall would like to see means put in place to protect recreational users from taking advantage of free electricity. It's hoped support will be offered to those who need it.
