Sault Ste Marie councillors propose interim bylaw banning data centre development; residents plan demonstrations as mayor calls AI centre concerns exaggerated

Sault Ste. Marie councillors Angela Caputo and Lisa Vezeau-Allen are advocating for an interim bylaw to halt data centre developments, citing environmental concerns and community impact.³

Nearly 100 residents expressed their worries during a virtual meeting, with many labeling the project as toxic and dangerous.

The proposed data centre, backed by Missinabie Cree Business LP, aims to establish a facility on an 8.39-acre site, potentially generating 200 jobs. However, critics argue that the job numbers are delusional and demand more transparency regarding the project's environmental impact.⁵

Mayor Christian Provenzano dismissed concerns as exaggerated, emphasizing the project's potential for job creation and revenue generation. He stated, “This is a job-creating opportunity at a time when we need job creation.”¹

Residents are planning demonstrations, with one attendee stating, “Any kind of activity, I'm down for standing out there and raising awareness.”²

The councillors' resolution calls for a review of land use planning policies related to AI data centres, aiming to establish a regulatory framework that includes environmental safeguards.⁶

The interim bylaw proposal will be discussed at the upcoming city council meeting, with a report expected by Q2 2027.

“Generally, to look at the impacts, you require an environmental impact assessment,” said a concerned resident, highlighting the lack of current regulations in Ontario for data centres.

The city is urged to consider the long-term implications of such developments on local resources and community health.