Downtown Sarnia is at a crossroads. We have a vibrant mix of businesses, an increasing push for revitalization, and clear signals from the community that something needs to change. But instead of coming together around a shared vision, we are fracturing under the weight of competing committees and misaligned efforts. If we’re serious about building a thriving downtown, it’s time to get organized and use the mechanisms already in place to create a strong, unified voice that council can’t ignore.
Right now, the Downtown Sarnia Planning Committee is resisting the formation of a formal Downtown Committee under council's direction, arguing that a new committee would duplicate efforts and fragment resources. They claim to represent the downtown business community but have demonstrated an unwillingness to engage meaningfully with broader perspectives or embrace change. I attended one of their early meetings—it was clear that the group lacked organization, direction, and inclusivity. Their narrow scope will only perpetuate the stagnation holding downtown back.
The solution isn’t more branding or coupon campaigns to draw in shoppers. It isn’t another exclusive club of stakeholders operating on their own terms. The solution is a downtown committee that is transparent, accountable, and recognized by council. This would pave the way for establishing a Business Improvement Area (BIA)—a proven model for revitalizing downtowns across the country.
A BIA is more than just a name on a letterhead. It’s a formal organization that allows businesses to pool resources, advocate collectively, and work toward shared goals like increased safety, beautification, and filling vacant storefronts. Crucially, it gives downtown a recognized voice that can inform council decisions. Without this voice, downtown remains a patchwork of disconnected interests.
For those who worry about redundancy, let me be clear: the existing planning committee has had its chance to lead. Instead of embracing council's support, they’ve chosen to entrench themselves, pushing back against collaboration. This approach isn’t just unproductive—it’s actively harming downtown's prospects.
The reality is that Sarnia's downtown won’t thrive until we stop operating in silos. This starts with the Downtown Sarnia Planning Committee stepping aside and allowing a council-recognized committee to take shape. Such a move isn’t about abandoning their work—it’s about amplifying it through structure, resources, and inclusivity.
This is a challenge to the Downtown Sarnia Planning Committee: Do the right thing. Step aside and support the creation of a formal, council-endorsed committee that can unite downtown stakeholders and drive meaningful change. If we’re serious about establishing a BIA and building a downtown that works for everyone, we need to stop protecting turf and start working together.
Downtown Sarnia doesn’t need more division. It needs leadership, unity, and the courage to change. Let’s build that future together.