Sarnia still fighting for Nova Chemical expansion

The mayor of Sarnia is going all out to make sure the province lands a $1.5-billion investment in his city.

Nova Chemicals is trying to decide whether to invest at its existing plant in the Sarnia area or expand in the United States.

Sarnia Mayor Mike Bradley says the province has to provide incentives so that the investment does not go the Gulf Coast in the U.S.

"Where they need assistance is on the cost of power. The power rates need to be competitive," Bradley said.

A new plant in Sarniawould help funnel $1.5 billion into the local economy, Bradley said.

Bradley said the plantwould create at least 90 full-time jobs upon its completion and during construction,the project would create 1,500 jobs.

He also said it would add $450,000 to the tax base.

Mayor Bradley says meetings have been held with the premier. More discussions are taking place with Ministry of Energy officials to make sure the investment comes to the province.