October 21, 2024  — The City is looking to the public, and key stakeholders, as it works to draft an Economic Development Master Plan.

The plan will answer key questions about the current economic landscape; future trends and opportunities; and define a vision for future economic development efforts. Built on public input; up-to-date data and analysis; and the insight of key local stakeholders, the plan will provide recommendations to help guide future decisions related to how the City can support local business, attract investment, and create a conductive municipal environment for business diversification, attraction and retention.

“Developing an Economic Development Master Plan is crucial for shaping Sarnia’s future. This initiative will not only identify opportunities for growth and innovation over the coming years, but also ensure that our community’s voice is heard in the process,” said Kelly Provost, Economic Development Director, adding, “engaging with residents and local businesses will provide invaluable insights that will guide our strategic direction, fostering a vibrant economy that seeks to benefit everyone in Sarnia.”

Economic resilience is identified as a key strategic priority in the 2024 City Council Strategic Plan driving the establishment of an Economic Development Master Plan. Development of a such a plan was as a recommendation in the City’s 2022 Business Parks Competitive Market Analysis. The City has retained UrbanMetrics Inc as the project consultant for development of the master plan.

A project page with related survey has been launched at www.speakupsarnia.ca/EDMP. In-person and online public meetings have been scheduled for Nov. 26 and Dec. 3 respectively.

The survey will remain open until 4:30 p.m. on Dec. 2.