Lambton County Council is getting ready for possible new projects in the area.
Sarnia Mayor Mike Bradley’s motion to back the ongoing review and progress of the proposed Northern Shield Pipeline got unanimous approval from county council on Wednesday.
Ontario Premier Doug Ford and Alberta Premier Danielle Smith announced a proposed crude oil pipeline and energy corridor from Hardisty, Alberta to Sarnia in July.
Local politicians welcomed the idea and expressed hopes for consultations to move ahead. Aamjiwnaang First Nation Chief Janelle Nahmabin also urged for meaningful discussions before any approvals are given.
During Wednesday’s meeting, Bradley mentioned that the need for the pipeline is now more urgent than it was a year or two ago.
“Line 5 continues to be in jeopardy, and this is a Canadian solution. It will take time and there’s a lot of hills to climb to make this happen,” he said.
“We need the federal government to show support and I think by sending this motion by county council, if it’s approved, we send a very clear message that we believe this is the best solution — as Canada’s eastern energy hub, this is the best solution for the next generation.”
The endorsement will be sent to members of provincial and federal governments, including the Premier of Ontario, Ontario Minister of Energy and Mines, and local Members of Provincial Parliament.
The City of Sarnia council previously backed the continued review of the proposed project during its meeting on July 20.
At the same time, county council also asked staff to prepare a report on potential impacts of AI-related data centre developments within Lambton.
Bradley’s motion passed unanimously.
“This simply sets up the stage for next year and it’s really being proactive to say, let’s not react to this proposal or that proposal, let’s understand what we can do. So far, what I’m finding is most of it is not within the control of the lower tier,” Bradley said.
The report is expected to be presented to the new council in early 2027.
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