On behalf of the Sarnia Lambton Chamber of Commerce Transportation Committee, we appreciate the opportunity to provide written input regarding the future structure and governance of the Sarnia Chris Hadfield Airport.

The Chamber’s Transportation Committee has reviewed the options presented in the Explorer Solutions Part 1 Report and discussed the implications of the various governance models for the long-term sustainability, competitiveness, and economic impact of the airport.

After consideration, the Committee recommends that the City of Sarnia proceed with the Municipal Services Corporation (MSC) model, consistent with the option that was previously recommended and supported by Sarnia City Council.

The Committee believes the MSC model offers several key advantages that align with the long-term interests of both the airport and the broader regional economy:

1.Operational Flexibility and Expertise
An MSC structure allows the airport to operate with greater flexibility than a traditional municipal department, enabling management to respond more quickly to market opportunities, airline partnerships, cargo development, and evolving aviation industry dynamics.

2.Business-Focused Governance
An independent board structure allows for the inclusion of individuals with expertise in aviation, logistics, economic development, finance, and infrastructure. This governance model helps ensure decisions are made with a strategic and commercial perspective while maintaining public accountability.

3.Economic Development Opportunities
Sarnia Chris Hadfield Airport is an important regional economic asset. A more entrepreneurial operating model would allow the airport to pursue new opportunities such as expanded aviation services, aerospace activity, cargo development, and enhanced partnerships with local industry.

4.Financial Transparency and Sustainability
An MSC structure can provide clearer financial reporting, long-term planning capability, and the ability to pursue partnerships, grants, and revenue opportunities that may be more difficult to realize within a traditional municipal department structure.

5.Alignment with Successful Models in Other Municipalities
Many municipalities across Ontario and Canada have adopted similar governance models for their airports and other major infrastructure assets, enabling them to balance public ownership with operational independence and strategic growth.

The Sarnia Lambton Chamber of Commerce Transportation Committee believes that selecting the Municipal Services Corporation model will position Sarnia Chris Hadfield Airport to operate more strategically, pursue new opportunities, and strengthen its role as a key piece of transportation infrastructure supporting regional economic development.

We appreciate the Future Operations and Planning Committee’s work on this important matter and thank you for the opportunity to provide input. The Chamber and its Transportation Committee would welcome the opportunity to continue supporting the airport’s future success.

Sincerely,

Carrie McEachran, CEO

On behalf of the Sarnia Lambton Chamber of Commerce
Transportation Committee

Members:

Mark Lumley (Chair)- Fairwind Farms

Mabel Higgins- RAIL

Joe Dedecker- Federal Bridge Corporation

Jason Cole- County of Lambton

Bill Yurchuk- Wellings of Corunna

Gary Martin- Lambton Federation of Agriculture

Kyle Walker- Lambton College

Kurtis Gray- Lambton College

Shauna Carr- Sarnia Lambton Economic Partnership

Rick Charlebois- Town of Petrolia

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