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From the community

The Opinion section of The Journal is a platform for a diverse range of voices from Sarnia-Lambton. The views expressed here do not necessary reflect those of The Journal or its editorial team.
 

OPINION: Sarnia wants nice things

OPINION: Sarnia wants nice things

Imagine a vibrant new park at Ferry Dock Hill, transforming Sarnia’s waterfront into a bustling hub of activity and connection. This vision is within our grasp, but it requires our community’s support to become a reality.
Churches, taxes, and a way forward for Rainbow Park

Churches, taxes, and a way forward for Rainbow Park

In his latest column, Nathan Colquhoun questions whether tax-exempt churches should do more to address Sarnia’s housing crisis. With Rainbow Park highlighting a failure of both policy and morality, he argues that if churches aren’t actively helping, their tax savings could fund real housing solutions. Is it time to rethink these exemptions for the common good?
OPINION: The growing divide in Canadian politics: A reflection on leadership and media influence

OPINION: The growing divide in Canadian politics: A reflection on leadership and media influence

Rodney Beatty reflects on the deepening divides in Canadian politics, exploring how leadership struggles and media narratives are shaping the country's polarized landscape ahead of the 2025 federal election.
Downtown Sarnia needs unity, not fragmentation

Downtown Sarnia needs unity, not fragmentation

In his latest column, Nathan Colquhoun takes aim at the fractured efforts holding back downtown Sarnia, challenging the current planning committee to step aside and urging stakeholders to unite under a formal, council-recognized structure. By focusing on collaboration and laying the groundwork for a Business Improvement Area (BIA), he argues, downtown can finally find its voice and drive meaningful change.
The loneliness of men and the need for connection in Sarnia

The loneliness of men and the need for connection in Sarnia

In his latest column, Nathan Colquhoun reflects on the quiet epidemic of loneliness, particularly among men, and how it manifests in Sarnia during the holidays. Drawing from local observations and experiences, he explores the lack of inclusive community spaces and calls for simple, intentional efforts to bring people together and strengthen the fabric of the city.
LETTER: Why is the City of Sarnia using consultants so much? A reply to Councilor Bill Dennis' concerns.

LETTER: Why is the City of Sarnia using consultants so much? A reply to Councilor Bill Dennis' concerns.

LETTER: Response to 'At Least We're Not in Sarnia' opinion in The Chatham Voice

LETTER: Response to 'At Least We're Not in Sarnia' opinion in The Chatham Voice

Let’s end violence against women

Let’s end violence against women

In this opinion piece for the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women, Allan McKeown calls for collective action to challenge systemic violence and honor the lives lost.
Who are our councillors representing?

Who are our councillors representing?

In his latest column, Nathan Colquhoun examines the strange trend of Sarnia councillors declaring conflicts of interest on issues affecting their own neighbourhoods, leaving bureaucrats and city staff to set the agenda. Colquhoun argues that this approach undermines the very purpose of elected representation and calls for a rethinking of how councillors advocate for their communities.
Do we really need $6 million to make Sarnia “business ready”?

Do we really need $6 million to make Sarnia “business ready”?

In his latest column, Nathan Colquhoun questions Sarnia's $6 million plan to prep industrial parks, arguing the city should cut red tape instead of spending taxpayer dollars as a patchwork solution to a broken system.