In the heart of Brights Grove, a dedicated group of residents have worked for years to bring a new community gathering place to life: the Brights Grove Library & Community Hub.

This grassroots project, led entirely by volunteers, received a 6-3 vote in favour from City Council at the end of 2023, securing its place in the 2026 budget. It was a proud moment for the community and a major step towards an accessible, modern space for residents, families, and local organizations.

Unfortunately, this week this project was removed from the 2026 budget and moved back to the Unfunded Projects list with no further explanation. Its future is now in jeopardy.

This decision could stop the project entirely, even though:

• The design is nearly complete and ready to move to tender.
• $4 million is already in City reserves, with another $2.6 million scheduled this budget cycle.
• The community is prepared to raise $1 million in additional support.

Without Council action to reinstate it, years of planning, volunteer work, and dedicated funding could be lost, along with the opportunity to finally deliver this long-awaited community hub.

nuSarnia is joining the Bright’s Grove Community Hub Committee in asking residents to take action by sending a letter of support to City Council.

Please use our template to email all members of City Council. Share why this project matters to you and ask Councillors to reply confirming how they intend to support the project moving forward. It’s important that we hold our Councillors and Mayor accountable for the decisions they make and ensure those decisions reflect the needs and priorities of our community.

Now is the time to invest in spaces for people. Please encourage Council to cast a vote that reflects your vision for Sarnia, a vision that includes community centres where people can gather, connect, and thrive. This project is already more than halfway there.