Resident Notice & Advisory

Petrolia Mayor Returns Several Strong Mayor Powers to Members of Council and Administration

Following the Provincial announcement that several new communities would see Strong Mayor Powers come to their community as of May 1, 2025, Mayor R. Brad Loosley has spent some time reviewing the new role and how he would like to proceed for the balance of his term in Petrolia.

Following an in-depth Council Education Session provided by Integrity Commissioner, John Mascarin, and after reviewing the new powers and guidelines, Mayor R. Brad Loosley has chosen to delegate the following Strong Mayor Powers to both Council and Administration respectively.

These include:

• The Establishment of Committees and Functions to Council
• Organizational Structure and Hire and Dismiss Certain Senior Staff to the CAO
• Delegate Recruitment and Dismissal of CAO to Council

Those powers that Mayor R. Brad Loosley has retained cannot be delegated.

Full details of the Strong Mayor powers as provided by the Province of Ontario can be found here https://www.ontario.ca/document/ontario-municipal-councillors-guide/10-strong-mayor-powers-and-duties.

“…The biggest takeaway from all of this is that this is a broad, sweeping change for us, and that I strongly felt that a detailed review was important before I made a quick decision. I trust our administrative staff, and I value the input of Council and the role that we all play in the continued betterment of the Town of Petrolia for our residents and visitors.” Said Mayor R. Brad Loosley. He then added that, “I appreciate the time I have spent with staff to review the Strong Mayor powers, and for the opportunity to understand how we can continue to proceed with open and accountable governance in the Town of Petrolia.”

July 3, 2025/by petrl

Petrolia Canada Day Family Fishing Derby Lots of Fun!

News, Resident Notice & Advisory

Petrolia Canada Day Family Fishing Derby Lots of Fun!

Petrolia – The annual Canada Day family fishing derby returned this year, and organizers were very pleased to welcome families to try their skills at catching a fish in Petrolia’s Little Lake in Bridgeview Park.

The annual fishing derby brought many families to the park and lots of first-time anglers had success in catching their first fish!

We are pleased to announce the winners this year:

4 & under

1st place- Hallie Deelstra – 29” Carp

2nd place- Max Rainsberry – 12” Catfish

3rd place – Miller Hollingsworth – 6” Catfish

5–6-year-olds

1st place- Sadie Deelstra – 26” Carp

2nd place- Charlie Kitson – 21” Carp

3rd place- William Simone – 14” Catfish

7–9-year-olds

1st place- Wyatt Deelstra – 19” Catfish

2nd place- Lily Rankin – 15.5” Sucker

3rd place- James Jasmin – 15” Catfish

10–12-year-olds

1st place- Madison Butler – 23” Catfish

2nd place- Weston Piggott – 22” Catfish

3rd place- Archer Weed – 16” Sucker

13+

1st place- Jadin Vandenberghe – 31” Carp

2nd place- Tie Richards – 19” Catfish

3rd place- Chloe Reid- 18” Catfish

Some quick statistics:

55 fish caught and released
1 root mass
1 snapping turtle

Director Parks, Recreation and Facilities, Julie Bullock said, “It was great to see so many young anglers out for the annual Canada Day Family Fishing Derby, the banks of Little Lake were packed with families. The weather was perfect, and the fish were biting – you can’t ask for better than that!”

We would like to extend a huge thank you to The Outdoorsman, CUPE Local 2393 and to the Lambton Central Petrolia Optimist Club for their sponsorship of the prizes, and to our volunteers that made the measuring look easy. Thank you to all participants, please visit the Town of Petrolia, Ontario Facebook page to view a complete album of the winners.

Photo: Age 4 & Under – 1st place- Hallie Deelstra – 29” Carp with Lambton Central Petrolia Optimist Club President Sandra Haines, and CUPE Local 2393 member, and long-time Town employee Todd Woolaver.

July 2, 2025/by petrl

Fraud Presentation – July 9 at 2pm & 7pm

News, Resident Notice & Advisory

June 30, 2025/by petrl

“Twelfth Annual Petrolia Pizzafest – A Cheesy Good Time!”

News, Resident Notice & Advisory

TWELFTH ANNUAL PETROLIA PIZZAFEST A CHEESY GOOD TIME!

Petrolia, ON – Petrolia Pizzafest organizers are celebrating a resounding success following Saturday June 7’s event in Victoria Park, Petrolia. Six pizza vendors were in the park and served a staggering amount of pizza. Line ups were stretching across the park, at times, while attendees waited for a slice from the vendor of their choice, and empty pizza boxes could be seen piling up between deliveries.

More than 6,500 slices were sold at the event, that started at noon and wrapped up at 7:30 p.m. Proceeds from the event were presented to the Petrolia Community Fund at the June 23, 2025, Town Council meeting. The Petrolia Community Fund awards grants to Petrolia organizations that support the town’s goals and initiatives for a safe and healthy community.

Petrolia is not short on pizza restaurants looking to fill hungry bellies, and event organizers were pleased to host six participants for 2025 – Domino’s Pizza, Godfather’s Pizza, Johnny G’s Premium Pizza, Petrolia Pizza & Subs, Pizza Hut, Petrolia, and Wise Guys Inc.

Four bands, including Smoke Break Duo, Speed Wobble, 402 West Band and Leave Those Kids Alone rocked the TD Stage in Victoria Park all day as part of the free entertainment; residents enjoyed the music from the comfort of their lawn chairs set down in the shade of the giant maples throughout the park. The First Petrolia Scouts sold cold treats, the Petrolia Lions Club tempted visitors with fries, burgers and more, The Rotary Club of Petrolia sold 50/50 tickets, Petrolia and Area Kiwanis Club members sold candy and snacks, and the Lambton Central Petrolia Optimist Club offered cold drinks. Young people were able to bounce and play all day in the bouncy houses.

Julie Bullock, Director of Parks, Recreation and Facilities estimates that, “More than 2,500 people enjoyed the pizza, family fun and ice cream.” The estimated economic impact in Petrolia for an event such as this is around $126,700.00 for the seven-and-a-half-hour event using the TREIM model.

The event was generously sponsored by TD Bank, Bourque Renovations, Rick and Barb Charlebois, and Crimestoppers. The crowd was well cared for by the Support Operations Response Team (SORT).

“Events like this don’t happen without a very long list of volunteers.” Said Mayor R. Brad Loosley, who added that “…We are so fortunate to have so many passionate people in our community who participate and make the community signature events a huge success!”

June 26, 2025/by petrl

Petrolia t-shirts now on sale

News, Resident Notice & Advisory

To pre-order a t-shirt please click the link below. Preorder will be accepted until July 10th.

https://d79620-47.myshopify.com/

June 23, 2025/by petrl

THE BARN DANCE IS READY TO ROCK PETROLIA – JULY 12

News, Resident Notice & Advisory

THE BARN DANCE IS READY TO ROCK PETROLIA – JULY 12

Petrolia – Saturday, July 12, 2025, Scott Manery and The Barnburners are back, and with them, local favourite Colt McLauchlin!

The Barn Dance will take place at the Petrolia Farmers’ Market Pavilion, with gates opening at 6:00 p.m. The Lambton Central Petrolia Optimist Club will be available with their bar-be-que, and the Lions Club of Petrolia will be there with their food truck, and fresh-cut French fries! The beer garden will open at 6:00 p.m. also. Attendees are asked to please bring lawn chairs should they wish. The Barn Dance is free to attend, and all ages are welcome.

The return of this highly anticipated annual event is sponsored by McDonald’s Petrolia, Bourque Renovations, Barb & Rick Charlebois, Holland Cleaning Supplies and Riverside Print and Signs. This event is made possible with the support of the Community Services Advisory Committee, and SORT volunteers.

“…Scott Manery is back with his awesome band, and they are ready to bring down the house once again with a night of non-stop, foot-tapping entertainment!” Said Julie Bullock, Director of Community Services and Facilities.

June 12, 2025/by petrl

PETROLIA LAUNCHES A NEW WAY FOR RESIDENTS TO COMMUNICATE WITH THE MUNICIPALITY

News, Resident Notice & Advisory

PETROLIA LAUNCHES A NEW WAY FOR RESIDENTS TO COMMUNICATE WITH THE MUNICIPALITY

Petrolia – Proud to be a leader in innovation for more than 150 years, Petrolia is pleased to announce the launch of “TextMyGov” a 24/7 way to directly connect with the information you need, when you need it.

There are three ways to connect with this new FREE service!

Sign up to receive alerts! Simply text PETROLIA to (289)769-9799
Ask us a question by simply texting “Hi” to (289)769-9799
Visit www.petrolia.on.ca and ask your question in the widget in the bottom right corner!

“This is an idea that is gaining traction in many communities as the world looks for answers to questions on a 24-hour period and not just while offices are open to the public.” Said, Laurissa Ellsworth, Director of Marketing, Arts and Communications.

This service will be a very useful two-way communication tool, with both the ability to respond to questions, and the ability to send alerts if needed. Users are first asked to opt-in and are reminded that they can opt-out at any time.

Some frequently asked questions:

What do we do with your number when you enroll?

Nothing except send you alert texts. You have the option of opting out of these at any time!

Do we share your number with anyone?

No.

Will you hear from us often?

No, you will receive alerts for emergencies, water service interruptions, or items that we need to reach subscribers to advise them of including waste collection delays, planned power outages and other similar items. You will only hear from us if you enroll to do so.

Standard text messaging rates apply, although most users’ plans will not incur any cost for use.

June 11, 2025/by petrl

Petrolia Announces Return of the Veteran Banner Program for Downtown

News, Resident Notice & Advisory

Petrolia Announces Return of the Veteran Banner Program for Downtown

Alongside many communities, Petrolia is pleased to be working with Memorial Banners in the further development of a downtown banner program that will continue to be self-financed and contribute to the Royal Canadian Legion Br. 216 and to Veterans Affairs.

The program is available on a first-come, first-served basis. The application forms will be online at www.town.petrolia.on.ca and available at the Town of Petrolia Municipal Office.

The cost of the banner is $275.00 plus HST, and it will be in place for a 3-year term, at which time they will be returned to the sponsor.

Banners will be displayed each year around Remembrance Day throughout downtown Petrolia.

“…Honouring and remembering those that served with this program is a visual reminder of the sacrifices that many made for our freedom.” Said Thera Wagner, Marketing and Special Events Associate.

June 10, 2025/by petrl

SEVENTH ANNUAL PETROLIA HARVESTFEST TICKETS AVAILABLE TOMORROW

News, Resident Notice & Advisory

Petrolia’s seventh annual Harvestfest meal tickets will be available tomorrow at the Petrolia Farmers’ Market Grand Opening. The seventh annual event, scheduled for Saturday, September 13, 2025, is shaping up to be another culinary delight, artfully prepared by Culinary Catering. This skillful and creative team will be assisted during the event by Town of Petrolia volunteers.

This event features food, beverage, table decorations, dishes and utensils, and entertainment all sourced from Petrolia Farmers’ Market Vendors where possible, and otherwise within 100 km of Petrolia. This celebration of all things local is a very popular harvest event each year, and tickets sell quickly.

We are pleased to announce the following sponsors, with more to be added as the event nears: Barb and Rick Charlebois, Bourque Renovations, and Beth Hackett Insurance Agency Ltd.

Entertainment for this year will be Cabin Fever – a local favourite! Local wine, beer and cider will be available at a cash bar at the event.

Tickets will be sold again in groups of six, enough for a table. Tables will enjoy family-style dining once again in our outdoor space at the Petrolia Farmers’ Market pavilion. Folks looking for single tickets or for groups smaller than six will be added to the waiting list.

Tickets are $390 per table for the multi-course, and live entertainment experience, ($65 per person).

For tickets, please visit town hall in Petrolia between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. from Monday to Friday, or the Petrolia Farmers’ Market on Saturday’s from 7:30 a.m. – noon. Tickets are limited. Doors open at 5:00 p.m. for the Saturday, September 13, 2025, event, at the Petrolia Farmers’ Market, 396 Fletcher Street, Petrolia.

May 23, 2025/by petrl

Shop, Dine, Discover Mural Installed Downtown Petrolia

News, Resident Notice & Advisory

A timely message in vivid colour, hand-painted by Dresden resident Sarah Steele, has been installed on the East side of Total Hair and Body Care downtown Petrolia and will share a message to “Shop, Dine and Discover” Petrolia.

Sarah Steele was one of three artists selected from the Sarnia-Lambton Economic Partnership and Town of Petrolia “Call for Artists” as part of the Downtown Revitalization project funded by a Rural Economic Development Grant in 2023.

The shop, dine and discover message is not a new one for Petrolia, it’s been the rallying cry since 2014 when the Town took on renewed vigor to support the downtown in a time of a large road reconstruction project on Petrolia Line. Just over 10 years later, the statement remains just as important – even more so considering the ongoing messaging from the Petrolia Business Association (PBA) to – Shop Petrolia, Shop Local, and Shop Canadian.

The PBA paid for the mural that will remind all that see it the importance of supporting local whether it be with a meal out, take out, your shopping habits or your choices for entertainment.

Chairperson of the PBA, Denise Thibeault said, “…It’s always been very important to me that people support the businesses in Petrolia. I have enjoyed working with our merchants for several years to accomplish the vitality that we see in our downtown and am pleased to have so much support from the PBA Board and our merchants to continue doing so.”

This is the third of three planned murals for Petrolia’s vibrant downtown, the first being a postcard offering “Greetings from Petrolia” by artist Blaze from Toronto, ON that was completed on the East facing wall of the Red Apple in downtown Petrolia (at the corner of King Street and Petrolia Line) in the spring of 2024. The second, installed mid-March is on display on the South side of the Petrolia Home Hardware building in Downtown Petrolia (at the corner of Petrolia Line and Eureka Street).

“Making Petrolia a destination with walking tours both historic and natural and providing points of interest throughout the downtown was the result of a Downtown Revitalization Study and Committee in 2023. I am pleased to see that we have accomplished the goals from that study and can continue to build on these experiences for both residents and visitors. We are so grateful for this gift from the Petrolia Business Association and the merchants of Petrolia, and to the building owners for sharing their walls with us.” Said Laurissa Ellsworth, Director of Marketing, Arts and Communications for the Town of Petrolia.