Please be advised that the Town of Petrolia is aware of a methane flare that is visible at the former Petrolia Landfill site located at site 4052 Oil Heritage Road, Petrolia.
This poses no risk to residents, and although it may appear that the flame is close to the ground and a potential hazard, it is, in fact, placed a safe distance from the ground.
Should you have any questions or concerns, please contact Waste Management at 519-882-4288.
PETROLIA YOUTH COMMITTEE CALLS FOR APPLICATIONS
Petrolia, ON- Acting as a sub-committee for the Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee, the Petrolia Youth Committee has a goal of including youth in the Town of Petrolia, and to provide experience and leadership opportunities including the following:
Applications are now being accepted for participation through the Committee and are available at area schools also. Applications can be found here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfulxD2OWp0F6U67sI82J6f_K5TjYMUc8pore3aELomDhqCgg/viewform
Petrolia, ON – The Town of Petrolia, in partnership with the Township of Enniskillen are proud to confirm the receipt of both a Federal contribution in the amount of $1,347,802 from the Canada Housing Infrastructure Fund (CHIF) Program and funding of more than $2 million dollars from the Government of Ontario through the Municipal Housing Infrastructure Program’s Housing-Enabling Water Systems Fund (MHIP-HEWSF).
The CHIF program was designed to increase housing supply and support community growth by investing in the water and solid waste infrastructure needed to deliver essential services.
CHIF aims to accelerate the construction and upgrading of housing-enabling drinking water, wastewater, stormwater, and solid waste infrastructure, directly supporting the creation of new homes and increasing densification. This investment is part of the Government of Canada’s commitment to address the impacts of the housing crisis on communities of all sizes across Canada.
The Housing-Enabling Water Systems Fund under MHIP helps municipalities develop, repair, rehabilitate and expand critical drinking water, wastewater and stormwater infrastructure. The program supports the province’s growing population by ensuring communities have the necessary water infrastructure to support the building of new homes.
The Petrolia Line capital project includes replacing the existing 200mm watermain with a 300mm watermain from the east side of Bear Creek to Oil Heritage Road, then south to Oil Heritage Road. The new watermain will extend beyond its current boundary to the future development entrance on Oil Heritage Road. This critical infrastructure upgrade will unlock more than 1,000 new homes, representing a 40% increase in Petrolia’s housing supply.
The Honourable Gregor Robertson, Minister of Housing and Infrastructure and Minister responsible for Pacific Economic Development Canada said, “Through the Canada Housing Infrastructure Fund, our government is helping communities like Petrolia and Enniskillen build the critical infrastructure needed to unlock more housing. Reliable water and wastewater systems are the foundation of sustainable growth, and this investment will support over a thousand new homes for local families. By working together with our provincial and municipal partners, we’re ensuring that communities across Ontario have the tools they need to grow and thrive.”
“Investing in local infrastructure is part of our government’s plan to protect Ontario, strengthen the economy and create more jobs,” said Ontario’s Acting Minister of Infrastructure, Todd McCarthy. “The Watermain Upsizing on Petrolia Line project is part of our government’s $4 billion investment in critical infrastructure that will make new housing possible. For the Town of Petrolia and the Township of Enniskillen, this project will help enable more than 1,000 new homes.”
Deputy Mayor Joel Field said, “I am so pleased to see this project moving forward with the support of the Government of Canada and the Province of Ontario. I would like to extend our thanks to MP Marilyn Gladu and MPP Bob Bailey for their continued advocacy, and for their unwavering support for Petrolia. The Council of the Town of Petrolia are strong advocates for working together with developers and our Federal and Provincial partners to build homes in Petrolia.”
Mayor Kevin Marriott added that, “Another excellent opportunity for our communities to work together for the betterment of all. The Council of the Township of Enniskillen are pleased to be a part of this initiative to help build more homes faster and are aligned with the provincial goalposts. We extend our thanks to both MP Marilyn Gladu and MPP Bob Bailey also, as they are both excellent supporters of our Township.”
The upsizing is expected to take 6 weeks and started in mid-September.
Petrolia, ON – The Petrolia Community Fund is now accepting grant applications for the community betterment within the Town of Petrolia. The Petrolia Community Fund was established in 2012 and over time has been able to disburse back into the Town of Petrolia over $65 000, funds have been used in supporting youth programs, facility improvements and community projects.
Mike Barron, Executive Director (SCF) had this to say, “this is a very exciting year as the Petrolia Community Fund continues to grow, there are over $12 000 available for community grant disbursement in the Town of Petrolia.”
Grant Applications can be submitted directly to the SCF office via email office@sarniacommunityfoundation.ca and will be accepted up until Monday December 1, 2025 at 400pm. Organizations can visit the SCF website directly to fill their applications out online (www.sarniacommunityfoundation.ca). If you would like more information or have questions about the granting process, please call the SCF office at 519 332 2588.
Known as The Greatest Town on Earth, Petrolia’s unique and rich history as the cradle of the global oil industry is reflected in its countless lush green parks, grand church spires, colourful gardens, and beautiful neighbourhoods. The Town’s commitment to the preservation of its history supports a quality of life that energizes its residents and inspires its visitors. Petrolia honours its success and takes pride in its fiercely independent community spirit. The Petrolia Community Fund is one means for its citizens to continue building on that rich heritage.
The Petrolia Community Fund is in collaboration with the Sarnia Community Foundation. If anyone would like more information on the Petrolia Community Fund or would like to contribute, please contact Mike Barron at the SCF office 519 332-2588 or visit town.petrolia.on.ca/about-petrolia/community-fund.
For further information, please contact:
Mike Barron Executive Director
Sarnia Community Foundation
Phone: 519 332 2588
DEPUTY FIRE CHIEF DARREN ALLAN RETIRES AFTER 25 YEARS OF SERVICE WITH THE PETROLIA AND NORTH ENNISKILLEN FIRE DEPARTMENT
After 25 years of service with the Petrolia and North Enniskillen Fire Department, Deputy Fire Chief, Darren Allan has participated in his last fire call and retired. At Council this evening he was presented with his 25-year service medal.
In 25 years with the Department, Darren has made a lot of friends in the community. He has flipped a lot of burgers, washed a lot of cars, attended calls too numerous to count, he has helped train members, coached Junior Firefighters, met with the public, educated residents, toured youth and much more.
Deputy Chief Darren William Allan joined the Petrolia North Enniskillen Fire Department on July 17, 2000, as a Probationary Firefighter. After completing his 1-year probationary period and training he was promoted to Regular Firefighter. During his 7 years as a Firefighter, he continued to advance his knowledge and skills by taking various courses such as Advanced Interior Firefighting, Fire Cause and Determination, Terrorism Awareness, Hazmat, Fire Service Leadership from Dalhousie University, Emergency Medical Technician – Basic and Paramedic level in Port Huron, Michigan. Darren received a promotion to Platoon Captain, a position he held until he was promoted to Deputy Chief in February 2020.
Darren had the distinct privilege of chairing two special committees for the purchase of two new apparatus. The first committee was for the purchase of Rescue 12, and the second committee for the purchase of Tower 13.
While on the Fire Department Darren also served seven years in the Canadian Armed Forces Reserve as a noncommissioned member.
“He will be missed at the Hall, and at calls. Darren has been a constant for many years and has left in his wake a noticeable gap in our organization. Although he will be missed, we look forward to hearing about his retirement adventures and wish him the very best.” Said Fire Chief, Rick Cousins.
Town of Petrolia Makes $5K Donation to “Strong Communities Start Here” Program at Petrolia YMCA
Petrolia – The Town of Petrolia is pleased to provide a $5,000 donation towards the opportunities that the Petrolia YMCA provides families, so they may access the Y programs and services offered. This donation is a welcome addition to the program that provided more than $40,000 in financial assistance in 2024.
This donation provides financial assistance for memberships, YMCA facility improvements, new sport and leadership programs for youth, financial assistance for Y day campers, overnight camp experiences, and fitness and social programs for seniors.
The Y describes the program as: “A growing number of our family, friends, and neighbours are having a hard time accessing safe affordable housing, transportation, education, and clean air and water. Many are experiencing racism, discrimination, and violence. This impacts the full potential of health and well-being for everyone in our community.
Some challenges are even greater for newcomers to Canada who are building lives in Southwestern Ontario. As a community builder, the Y works to reduce these barriers through our programs. Our community partnerships support many vulnerable community members and create important pathways into community and opportunities for newcomers. A strong community is one where every individual has a chance to succeed.”
Community Statistics
Income inequality in Canada has increased over the past 20 years with more older adults experiencing poverty each year.
As many as 1 in 7 households don’t have enough money to maintain a healthy diet.
9 in 10 Canadians didn’t attend a live community event or had no involvement in neighbourhood or community projects during the pandemic.
Many newcomers are experiencing poverty in Southwestern Ontario and struggle to find work in their field.
Source: SWAHN Community Health Profile, Angus Reid, Statistics Canada, Fraser Institute, LPRC
The Town of Petrolia is proud of the Petrolia YMCA for their efforts to provide support to families that may otherwise be unable to access the facility.
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Photo: Cheque Presentation L-R Rick Charlebois, Town of Petrolia CAO/Treasurer; Julie Bullock, Town of Petrolia Director of Parks, recreation and Facilities; Wade Babula, Petrolia YMCA General Manager; Joe Cebulski, YMCA of Southwestern Ontario Regional Manager – HFA Operations, Lambton/Kent; R. Brad Loosley, Mayor of the Town of Petrolia
Mayor of Petrolia Announces Draft 2026 Budget Timeline
This will be our first municipal budget under the Strong Mayor Powers legislation. Mayor R. Brad Loosley has delegated as many of the Strong Mayor powers as possible to Council and the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO).
The Mayor is not permitted to delegate the Strong Mayor budget powers. Our 2026 Budget will be the Mayor’s Budget. Therefore, Mayor Loosley has implemented a Budget Review Team consisting of Deputy Mayor, Joel Field; Councillor Bill Clark (Finance Liaison); and Mayor Loosley.
The draft staff 2026 budget includes the largest capital expenditure plan in Petrolia’s history- we use Canadian companies, Canadian workers and Canadian products to the greatest extent possible. These are exciting times with significant challenges facing us locally, provincially and nationally.
The Strong Mayor Powers legislation has added several necessary steps into our budget process. The Mayor’s 2026 budget will come to Council at the Council Meeting in January 2026 seeking Council’s adoption.
Timeline
Sept. 22, 2025 – 2026 Water and Sewer Rates Information Session
By Nov. 5, 2025 – Public Release of Mayor’s Proposed 2026 budget
Nov. 7-24, 2025 – Remaining members of Council to review Mayor’s proposed budget
Nov. 10, 2025 – 2026 Proposed Fee Schedule at Council
Nov. 25, 2025 – Mayor’s proposed budget meeting with Council and the management team
Dec. 8, 2025 – Mayor to host a public information session to introduce budget
January 12, 2026 – Budget to be on Council Agenda for consideration
“As in the past, staff are available to help with any questions or comments. I look forward to working cooperatively with the rest of Council as we have in the past. These are some very exciting times in Petrolia, and we have a lot of work to do to see the multiple projects through to completion and to continue to provide the services to our residents that contribute to an excellent quality of life.” Said Mayor R. Brad Loosley.
Petrolia Water Treatment Plant in Brights Grove Kicks Off a Multi-Year, $16.2M Intake Project
The Town of Petrolia, Township of Enniskillen, Township of Dawn-Euphemia, and Village of Oil Springs will benefit from the intake replacement project, as it will restore treatment capacity at the Bright’s Grove WTP and maintain a safe drinking water supply system to over 11,200 residents in the Town of Petrolia, Townships of Enniskillen and Dawn-Euphemia and the Village of Oil Springs.
The current estimate cost for this project is $16.2M. A funding announcement of $11.9 million was made in 2022 by the federal government and the Province of Ontario. The announcement comes after an application to the 2021 intake of the Green Infrastructure funding stream of the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP) was approved at both the Federal and Provincial level.
At the kickoff to the project, Stuart Winchester, P.Eng. from CIMA+ addressed those in attendance with some information about the project and some timelines.
• The Works were tendered publicly on 18 February 2025. Bids for the works were received from five (5) pre-qualified firms, with the lowest acceptable bid submitted by Stone Town Construction Limited of St Mary’s, Ontario at a Total Tender Price of $12,512,773.50 plus HST.
• The Contract was Awarded to Stone Town Construction Limited on 15 April 2025, with an anticipated in-service date of 30 September 2026.
• On-site works to proceed through 2025 and early 2026. In-water works scheduled for spring/summer of 2026.
The Works include:
o Construction of a new Low-Lift Pump Station with a rated capacity of 12.0 MLd (Million Litres daily).
o Construction of a new 600mm intake pipeline extending approximately 380m into Lake Huron. The new intake pipeline will be constructed using HDPE pipe.
o Pre-treatment facility installed upstream of the existing membrane filters, to remove grit and turbidity from the raw water and protect the membrane filters.
The design was prepared based on 20-year population projections and included provisions for future upgrades depending on growing demands in the service area.
MP Marilyn Gladu said, “This is a project that is integral to the future of Petrolia, and to their neighbours in Enniskillen, Dawn-Euphemia and Oil Springs. The importance of clean and sustainable drinking water can not be underscored enough, and I am very pleased to be a part of this project.”
MPP Bob Bailey said, “I am extremely pleased that the federal and provincial governments are teaming with our local municipalities to modernize the critical water infrastructure in rural Lambton. This investment is part of the provincial government’s plan to create sustainable communities with resilient infrastructure for residents today, and for generations to come.”
The project will take place at the Brights Grove Water Treatment Plant (WTP) that is owned by the Town of Petrolia and operated by Ontario Clean Water Agency (OCWA) on behalf of the Town.
The project includes:
Mayor of Petrolia, R. Brad Loosley said, “…Of all the critical infrastructure items in a Municipality, access to safe drinking water is the absolute, single most important component to a healthy community. I would like to thank our neighbours in the Township of Enniskillen, Township of Dawn-Euphemia, and Village of Oil Springs for their support of this project. Further, I would like to thank MPP, Bob Bailey and MP, Marilyn Gladu for their continuous support, and the provincial government and the federal government for the funding to make this project a reality.”
Warden of the County of Lambton, and Mayor of Enniskillen Township, Kevin Marriott said, “We are pleased to work together with our neighbours to see this project through to completion. This is a key project for our community also. We are grateful to the senior level governments for their vision and support.”
Mayor of Dawn-Euphemia, Alan Broad said, “We would like to express our gratitude to the province and the federal government for this funding, and to our neighbours for the partnership to see this project through. This important infrastructure component will serve our communities well into the future and maintain our extremely high-quality drinking water.”
Mayor of Oil Springs, Ian Veen said, “Oil Springs is proud to be a part of this project and identifies the high importance of safe drinking water for our community. We would like to extend our thanks to the province, the federal government and to our neighbouring communities, for once again working together to benefit a large part of rural Lambton.”
The project is expected to take eighteen (18) months to complete. The Town of Petrolia wishes to give thanks to CIMA+, Stone Town, and OCWA for their efforts and support of this sizeable project.
