A new motion requests that city council, rather than the appointed Committee of Adjustment, take authority over a minor variance decision for the Indwell supportive housing project. The move would shift the technical planning decision to a political vote.
Sarnia City Council will consider a motion on January 19 that seeks to bypass the standard planning process regarding the Indwell supportive housing project.
The notice of motion proposes removing a variance application for the site on George Street from the Committee of Adjustment’s jurisdiction and placing it directly before city council for a final decision.
The application for the proposed affordable housing and supportive care facility is currently scheduled to be heard by the committee on February 10, 2026.
The Committee of Adjustment is a panel of residents appointed to make decisions on minor variances and land severances based on technical merit. These bodies typically operate independently to keep planning decisions separate from political pressure.
The text of the motion, submitted by Councillor Bill Dennis, argues that the "overwhelming and critical importance to the community" necessitates intervention by elected officials.
The motion states that elected representatives, rather than "unelected volunteers," should determine the outcome of the application.
If the motion is passed, council would assume authority over the file and vote on the variance at the regular council meeting on February 9, 2026.
This action would preempt the standard quasi-judicial process, effectively turning a zoning bylaw decision into a political debate on the council floor.
