Sarnia council has approved a rezoning application for an expansion at the Sarnia and District Humane Society on Exmouth Street.
The humane society is planning to build new indoor/outdoor kennels, a grooming salon and veterinary clinic that require minor additions to the building and alterations to the site.
Mike Stark was the lone councillor to vote against application during Monday's virtual meeting.
"I don't believe that there has been appropriate private sector notification," said Stark. "I believe this is in direct competition with the private sector."
Stark also shared concerns about flooding issues on the property.
Councillor George Vandenberg, who previously served as chair of the humane society board of directors, declared a conflict.
The city originally leased the property to the humane society for $1 in 1980, for 30 years.
That lease was extended for another 30 years in 2010.