Brantford City Council united in support of SC Johnson

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BRANTFORD, ON – In a unanimous show of support, Brantford City Council passed a pivotal resolution at their Committee of the Whole - Planning and Administration (COW – PA) meeting held on September 5, 2023. The resolution, as amended, underscores the City's deep appreciation for SC Johnson's long-standing presence and commitment to Brantford.

Background:

SC Johnson, a family-owned business with roots in Brantford dating back to 1920, has been an integral part of the Brantford community for over a century. The company's strong commitment to corporate citizenship and philanthropy has left an indelible mark on our city.

Over the last twenty years, SC Johnson has generously contributed over $34 million to various community projects, including the Brant Community Health Care System, the SC Johnson Trail, and the SC Johnson Community Centre. These investments have had a profoundly positive impact on the local economy and the wellbeing of Brantford's residents.

SC Johnson concerns:

Citing a residential development could potentially impact their operations, SC Johnson raised concerns regarding the proposed rezoning of the privately-owned property located at 58 Morrell Street. Despite the company's sincere attempts to reach reasonable solutions with the property owner, the situation escalated when the property owner opted to bypass the City's planning process and appealed directly to the Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT). 

The OLT is a tribunal established by the Province, and is given the authority to make decisions regarding land use planning matters, including rezoning applications. When an appeal is made to the OLT, the tribunal becomes the final decision-maker for the rezoning application.

Although the decision regarding the rezoning application is therefore no longer with the City, the Council resolution confirms the City will support the position SC Johnson is expected to take at the tribunal hearing.    

Throughout this process, the residents of Brantford have shown unwavering support for SC Johnson, recognizing the company's significant contributions to the community.

Actions taken by Brantford City Council:

A unanimous resolution endorsed at last night’s COW meeting directs the following:

  • The City of Brantford and its Council members’ public expression of their strong support and gratitude to SC Johnson for their positive contributions to the city and its residents.
  • The City of Brantford will advocate to the Ontario Land Tribunal (OLT) to listen to SC Johnsons’ opinions about the rezoning of 58 Morrell Street. Council wanted to make it clear it doesn't approve of the proposed rezoning for that property.
  • City staff will create a report by October, suggesting ways to help SC Johnson stay in Brantford. They'll also gather information about SC Johnson's employees, their community involvement, and the taxes they pay to the City. Additionally, they'll prepare a report detailing the history of ownership changes for 58 Morrell Street.
  • A copy of the resolution will be sent to the Member of Provincial Parliament Will Bouma and Member of Parliament Larry Brock.

Additional updates including how members of the public can be engaged in advocating to the OLT will be shared as more information regarding the appeal process becomes available. 

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Media Contact:

Maria Visocchi | Director, Communications and Community Engagement
City of Brantford | 519-759-4150 ext. 5754 | mvisocchi@brantford.ca

 

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