A large corrugated box with a "toy donations" sign filled with assorted toys and surrounded by Christmas garland and a toy bulldozer.© Can Stock Photo / McIninchA large corrugated box with a "toy donations" sign filled with assorted toys and surrounded by Christmas garland and a toy bulldozer.© Can Stock Photo / McIninch
Sarnia

'Toys for Tickets' discontinued, council opts to make donation instead

A program that offered motorists a chance to pay Sarnia parking tickets with an unwrapped toy or gift card will not return this holiday season.

Sarnia council opted to discontinue the "Toys for Tickets” initiative, which collected gifts for children, from newborn to the age of 18.

Councillor Terry Burrell said his opinion has been consistent since the program was launched in 2020.

"I do think it is an improper use of city monies, and so I will be voting against it," said Burrell.

Councillor Bill Dennis also highlighted the revenue loss from running the program for 15 days.

"I must admit, I've always loved our Toys for Tickets program, this year however, I'm struggling with the numbers," said Dennis. "I note, we collected about $2,000 over two years for the United Way family donations. I further note, the program costs the city $7,000 to $12,000 per year in lost revenue."

Dennis suggested the city donate $5,000 to the initiative instead, calling it a win-win for everyone.

"This way, the families in need get five times what they would get under the ticket program and it costs the city $2,000 to $7,000 less per year in lost revenue."

Dennis' recommendation was supported unanimously. Councillor Dave Boushy was absent from Monday's meeting.

The city has collected 88 toys and gift cards since the program was launched in 2020, worth over $2,200.

Historically, city staff said averages over the last three years showed approximately $25,000 dollars in revenue for the month of December.

As directed, the $5,000 donation will go to families in need through a partnership with the Sarnia-Lambton United Way.

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