Cathy Dobson/Local Journalism Initiative

Sarnia council is making sure there is no doubt they back the provincial government’s plan for an all-Canadian Northern Shield Pipeline from Alberta to the city’s refineries.

And they are asking that every Ontario municipality does the same.

All councillors in attendance at Monday’s meeting voted in favour of a motion from Mayor Mike Bradley to endorse the advancement of the pipeline, “recognizing Sarnia’s role as Eastern Canada’s energy hub and the potential benefits to energy security, economic development, and employment…”

It’s essential First Nations are consulted, Bradley added, saying that Energy Minister Stephen Lecce assured him that would be the case.

Councillor Anne Marie Gillis asked how long it will take to get the pipeline built, noting that she’s heard rumours it could be 20 years.

“That’s ridiculous in my humble opinion,” said Gillis, noting that preparations and land assembly may have already occurred and it may be possible to get the project moving in two to four years.

Bradley agreed that he anticipates a “reasonable” period before construction begins and “certainly not 20, not 10 (years).”

Councillor Terry Burrell took council’s endorsement one step farther, and made a motion that the city should work with Sarnia Lambton Economic Partnership, provincial and federal agencies, to analyze housing stock and what services and infrastructure could be required in the city’s south end to accommodate the pipeline and associated industrial parks.