Whereas tariffs on Canadian goods can have far-reaching consequences for both Canadian and American economies; and
Whereas they can disrupt trade relationships, increase costs, and alter the competitive landscape; and
Whereas the implications of such tariffs is crucial for small, mid-size, and large businesses to navigate, especially Algoma Steel, and
Whereas Algoma Steel Inc. continues to be one of the largest industries in the community, and directly impacts the local economy in Sault Ste. Marie; and
Whereas Algoma Steel for over 115 years has fostered economic growth, leading to creation of “off-shoot” businesses and jobs for Sault Ste. Marie; and
Whereas according to “Seeking Alpha” (a financial publication) “tariffs have pushed prices below production costs for much of the steel industry”; and
Whereas Algoma Steel has laid off some salaried employees primarily due to uncertainty surrounding these tariffs; and
Whereas Algoma has been a positive community partner by donating to many causes such as giving $250,000 to the YMCA, $1 million to the Sault Area Hospital Foundation for the residential withdrawal management facility, $10,000 to Superior Adult Learning Program, to name a few; and
Whereas all community leaders need to unite to stand behind Algoma Steel to ensure that their voice is heard loud and clear that the tariffs are directly impacting the company and hence each person in this community
Now Therefore Be It Resolved that the Mayor be requested to work with MP Terry Sheehan , MPP Chris Scott, and Jason Naccarato, President of Sault Ste. Marie Chamber of Commerce to write a unified letter addressed to Prime Minister Mark Carney, Ontario Premier Doug Ford, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, and US Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick to outline the importance of steel as it relates to both economies, highlighting that steel is crucial to the US military and auto industry supply chain, not to mention the negative economic consequences to Sault Ste. Marie, but many communities; and in addition to discuss with Algoma Steel the possibility of creating a community team task force with key stakeholders that includes local politicians to facilitate trade discussions with other markets or any other actions required to support the community’s oldest industry.