I feel compelled to share the letter I've just sent to the following "leaders." As an outspoken, enthusiastic, and passionate supporter of Sarnia-Lambton, I deeply value everything our community has to offer—from our stunning natural beauty to our collective strength in times of crisis and beyond.
I refuse to accept a one-sided solution. We face significant challenges, including homelessness, addiction, mental health issues, crime, and suffering among community members and businesses. I understand the astronomical costs, the challenge of pleasing everyone, and the urgent need for action.
Yet, it is disheartening to see that the leaders who are responsible for addressing these issues were absent from last week's town hall. Mayor, County Warden, MP, and MPP—each of you represents a different level of government responsible for these very problems. Not one of you was present.
OPEN LETTER TO:
Dear Mayor Mike Bradley, MP Marilyn Gladu, MPP Bob Bailey, Members of Sarnia City Council, and members of Lambton County Council,
I am writing to express my deep disappointment at your absence from the Sarnia Police Services Town Hall last night.
A special mention and thanks to Chrissy, Brian, Anne Marie, and Adam for attending the event. It’s disheartening that even Bill Dennis continues to show up at these events, while you do not.
By not engaging, you are inadvertently empowering someone whose approach and style are reminiscent of leaders like Donald Trump—exactly the type of divisive leadership this community does not need in a position like mayor.
This event was a significant opportunity to engage with the public on critical issues concerning our community's safety and well-being, yet your seats were notably empty.
As our elected representatives, it is your responsibility to be present at such forums, to listen to the concerns of the people you serve, and to actively participate in discussions that shape our community.
Your absence sends a troubling message about your priorities. Why were you not there? If there is a fair and honest reason, why did you not reach out and advise the organizers so they could inform the attendees?
The citizens of Sarnia-Lambton expect their leaders to show up, especially when it comes to matters as vital as policing and public safety. Your collective absence is precisely why the problems we are facing continue to snowball out of control.
I trust that in the future, you will take these opportunities more seriously and demonstrate the leadership that this community deserves. DO BETTER. BE BETTER.
I have put a lot of my personal time and effort into building up Sarnia-Lambton and have often, inadvertently, defended some of you. This is a slap in the face to those supporters of our communities and to those volunteering their time to promote, assist, and better Sarnia-Lambton as a whole.
Lastly, I want to personally thank the Sarnia Police Services, particularly the Chief, for their leadership, dedication, and commitment to working with and for the citizens. They demonstrated a masterclass in leadership, and each of you should take note, learn from it, and apply those lessons to your roles as elected officials. This isn't about campaigning for votes anymore; it's about engaging, discussing, and finding solutions to the ongoing issues within Sarnia-Lambton.
I, along with your city and county constituents, look forward to your explanation.
Shaun Antle