A consultant hired to develop Sarnia's new official plan defended the draft's recommendation, that residential growth in Bright's Grove is not appropriate at this time, during a public meeting Monday.
The Planning Partnership's Ron Palmer said while the document recognizes development potential, it doesn't require it to occur.
"The first step is to permit it, and that is already done, the second step -- if you wish -- is to facilitate and that really talks about incentivizing," said Palmer. "So, we think that this plan does provide ample opportunity to get development on the existing and vacant lots within the City of Sarnia."
Palmer said the city has in excess of 700 residential lots through subdivision and condominium approvals, and another 1,200 residential units that can be advanced when the owner is ready.
Councillor George Vandenberg questioned how many were actually "shovel ready" and asked why Bright's Grove was being ignored.
"We have not been ignoring Bright's Grove," said Palmer. "In fact, it has been a constant topic of conversation. There is a difference between not listening and not agreeing and at this point, the work we've carried out through the comprehensive review we believe we are giving council good, professional advice that is consistent with the provincial policy statement."
Palmer said any amendment to expand settlement growth in Bright's Grove would need county approval.
"We believe that the conversion of some employment lands is a more appropriate approach to growth management, rather than expanding the settlement area boundary in and around Bright's Grove."
Mark and Matt Huzevka spoke in favour of an urban boundary expansion to Bright's Grove.
The brothers own the land on the south-west corner of Lakeshore and Waterworks Roads.
"All required services and capacities are immediately available at the property boundaries," said Mark Huzevka. "This property is, by definition, uniquely infill for the Bright's Grove area. It is the most obvious and capable candidate for handling all types of commercial and residential expansion due to its size, proximity and accessibility."
Huzevka said that's why other uses have been explored.
"This (land) is severely restricted, and not a prime agricultural property," he said. "We've engaged in the services of multiple professional planning consultants, and recently a natural heritage environmental consultant, and all have said our property is ideally suited for settlement area expansion with no downside to the city."
The brothers, who have planned a residential development with over 250 building lots, a retirement facility, community centre, athletic fields and other commercial uses, don't want to see the houses and amenities lost to neighbouring communities.
The public meeting included over ten registered speakers, however, quorum of council was lost and the meeting was adjourned before they all had a chance to speak.
It's expected the draft official plan will be presented to Sarnia council with recommendations for approval May 9.
Written comments can still be submitted at sarnia@planpart.ca and more details on the growth management program can be found here.