Community revitalization thrives when neighbours unite for change

The Sarnia Journal has partnered with the nuSarnia Foundation to feature a series of stories promoting active transportation and community wellness.

The Sarnia Journal has partnered with the nuSarnia Foundation to feature a series of stories promoting active transportation and community wellness.

Living next to a long-abandoned house or near a vacant lot prone to illegal dumping can make you feel powerless. Vacant properties, whether derelict homes or neglected lots, strain neighbourhoods, threaten safety, drain resources, and diminish community pride. But tackling these issues can seem daunting due to complex laws governing property ownership and local government authority.

However, there's hope. Community revitalization thrives when neighbours unite for change. Here's how you can make a difference:

• Report Vacant Properties: Notify your local code enforcement about unsecured properties, illegal dumping, or hazardous conditions. Your action not only alerts authorities but also signals community concern.
• Join or Start a Community Group: Strength lies in numbers. Band together with neighbours to voice concerns about specific properties or broader neighbourhood issues.
• Organize Cleanups: Take charge of overgrown lots or littered areas by coordinating cleanups with local officials or neighbourhood groups. Maintaining these spaces deters illegal activity.
• Attend Community Meetings: Engage with policymakers at public meetings. Connect with like-minded residents, express concerns, and hold authorities accountable for neglected properties.

At next week’s council meeting, a concerned citizen will shed light on the ongoing issues with vacant properties across our downtown community and the lack of proactive enforcement from local authorities. Do you have similar concerns for your neighbourhood? Take the first step by reporting a vacant property in your area and rallying your neighbours to join you!

nuSarnia is a passionate group of social entrepreneurs committed to making Sarnia the best it can be – a vibrant, lively city where people are excited to live, work, play and learn. We are committed to raising awareness, sharing knowledge, acquiring wisdom, fostering collaboration and attentively listing to create a more connected, active and healthy community. Follow them: Instagram; Facebook; Website