Anticipated Scrap Metal Uptake Spurs Discussion for Licensing Bylaw

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster):  Public consultation meetings have been held for stakeholders and the public at large and a report is expected on the finding are expected to be presented to city council at its Aug. 28 meeting.

“This dates back to a December 2021 resolution,” said city planning director Peter Tonazzo.

That resolution identified complaints from the Carpin Beach Road area regarding operations of a particular scrap recycling business in that area.

The resolution asked staff to review whether a business licensing approach should be used to address some of the concerns noted by residents that specific area, and by extension, to develop a licencing approach for existing or future salvage/metal processing operations.

Tonazzo said many communities have taken a licencing approach to scrap metal operations in their communities.

With Algoma Steel preparing to launch its electric arc furnace process in the coming years, the need for more scrap metal is expected to increase, resulting in the expansion of existing businesses or the creation of new businesses.

“We also anticipate that the EAF processing will mean scrap metal processing on site and that could mean more materials arriving to the property by boat, train or truck,” Tonazzo said.

Algoma Steel has not responded to The Sault Star’s request for information.

The city’s website says the policy is needed to ensure safety, environmental responsibility and the development of scrap metal operations in the community.

“The intention of this proposed by-law is to strike a balance between supporting businesses and minimizing any adverse impact on the surrounding neighbourhoods and the environment,” a notice reads.

“This is still the early days for us,” Tonazzo said.

Public and stakeholder comment is still arriving and staff haven’t yet sifted through the information, suggestions or recommendations to develop a clear position or path forward yet.

Generally, the public are concerned with additional noise, traffic, vibrations and environmental impacts of expanding or new facilities, Tonazzo said.

City staff are also considering a bylaw the City of Hamilton has in place, especially given its similarities with a steel plant located in that community.

The Ministry of Environment Conservation and Parks also has guidelines and environmental protection measures in its polices that may need to be incorporated in any city bylaw for such facilities and their operations.

It’s anticipated a future city bylaw will outline licensing and permit requirements, zoning restrictions, operating hours, safety protocols for the storage and handling of scrap metals and environmental regulations to address pollution or hazardous materials.

Courtesy: www.saultstar.com