I am a concerned resident of…

I am a concerned resident of Sault Ste. Marie. I have lived in Sault Ste. Marie all of my life and raised a family here. I reside in the West End of town on Royce Avenue. Over the past year, I have had growing concerns regarding the level of emissions coming from Algoma Steel. This prompted me to start taking pictures in March of 2024. The level of emissions/soot billowing out of the stacks is excessive. It is my understanding that while Algoma Steel is transitioning to an ARC Furnace the provincial emission standards will be lifted which means the level of emissions containing benzene, benso(a)pyrene, suspended particulate matter and sulfur dioxide will be considerably worse. Although I support the development of the ARC furnace like many other residents, I do not believe that Algoma Steel should be given a free pass on emissions while they are in the transition period. There is no reason why they cannot be held to the required provincial standards. The ARC furnace is not expected to be fully operational until 2029. 5 years is a long time to be exposed to excessive levels of cancer causing agents. The soot settles in my yard, on my deck furniture, on my window sills and in my pool. There are days when there is a smog hovering in the west end. This is dependent on the weather (rain, wind, etc.) On windy days, with my windows open, soot settles on my window ledges and even on my floors. This is unacceptable. I avoid walking in the direction of Algoma Steel because of the emissions. I am concerned about eating vegetables from my garden and enjoying the beautiful outdoors this city has to offer. I am concerned for the children playing at schools, and near by parks .

Algoma Steel has stated that an Abatement Plan was prepared and accepted by the MECP however this plan has not been disclosed. Abatement plans are not a regulatory pathway to set air pollution standards for a facility.

The level of noise is excessive at all hours of the day. Enjoying a peaceful summer evening with your windows open is non-existent. Some noise it to be expected. We do live in a steel town however, the levels exceed the provincial standards.

There are no details in the Registry Posting or supporting documents to review. Algoma Steel has claimed confidentiality for all application documents. This undermines the public's ability to meaningfully participate and comment on the proposal/process. The lack of transparency is very troubling. Very little information was provided to the community from Algoma Steel or the Ministry. Given the health and safety components of this proposal, community involvement was and is essential. I wasn't even aware that the Ministry was accepting comments/concerns until I seen an article in Sootoday. This is not a way to garner support from the people most affected by this proposal.

Please take these concerns seriously and ensure the safety of our residents is paramount.

I would like to share photos however there is no link to allow me to upload them.