The Independent

The Sarnia and District Humane Society is one step closer to building a new facility in the Centennial Park area.

The organization has been working on plans to replace the current facility on Exmouth Street in the shadow of Centennial Park for years. It had a property on Wellington Street but the city planned a roundabout there, making the new $10 million shelter impossible. The humane society received a legal settlement of $1 million when it had to return the land to the city.

Last week, when the city council agenda came out, humane society officials were concerned to see the land in Centennial Park they had hoped to use for the new building was about to be declared surplus property and put up for sale.

Board Chair, Bob Farlow, said in an online statement this is the only property zoned for an animal shelter. “Staying here is not just a casual preference—it is a legal necessity and the safest, most logical place for the animals and community who depend on us.”

Sarnia Mayor Mike Bradley heard the concerns and suggested council give the Humane Society the first right of refusal for the land. That would allow the organization to place a bid on the property before it becomes widely available to the public.

Monday, in an 8-1 vote, council agreed .

The society expressed relief for the decision.

“Our vision for this new build on our current and adjacent site isn’t just about constructing a modern facility; it’s about expanding our capacity to love, protect, and serve you and your pets for decades to come,” officials said online.

It’s not clear how long the society has to make an offer on the property.