A proposed solar and data processing facility south of La Corey has officially been approved by Municipal District of Bonnyville Council — but not before residents raised concerns about health impacts, expansion and proximity to nearby homes.

Council voted to approve Development Permit 2026-D-00005 as a discretionary use under the Land Use Bylaw during its February 24 meeting.

The project will include a 320-square-foot, self-contained, insulated trailer housing data-processing equipment. A solar installation on site will provide most of the power required for its air-cooling system

The approval includes conditions, including one requiring reclamation of the land being used.

Concerns About Location and Health

Chief Administrative Officer Ben Berlinguette explained the application had previously been tabled so administration could add a reclamation condition.

He also confirmed that adjacent landowners had contacted the Municipality with concerns about the facility’s proximity to hamlet residences, the possibility of expansion and environmental impacts.

During the public portion of the meeting, residents were invited to speak.

One resident raised concerns about infrasound and potential health effects associated with the project.

Another speaker said he had reviewed materials circulating in opposition to the development and did not believe they presented a balanced perspective.

“Solar panels are accepted provincially,” he said. “I don’t see any reason not to approve it.”

He also noted the facility would be required to comply with provincial and federal regulations.

Division Around the Council Table

While some councillors supported the project, others were opposed.

One councillor stated clearly:

“I’m not in favour of this development. My neighbourhood is totally against it… I’m voting with my public opinion on this one.”

Deputy Reeve Ben Fadeyiw spoke in favour of the proposal and said the proponent had been transparent throughout the process.

“With everything they’ve done, they’ve been very forthright and open,” Fadeyiw said.

He also addressed messaging circulating in the community suggesting broader restrictions on solar development were coming to the region, stating that was not the case.

Reeve Barry Kalinski responded to suggestions that higher levels of government were influencing the decision.

“I keep hearing that the provincial or federal government is forcing us as council. That’s total hogwash,” Kalinski said. “No minister, premier or anyone from either government has ever approached us to tell us we have to do this.”

He added that the proposal was evaluated like any other development application.

“These guys came in like any other development and they checked more boxes than probably most developments in the MD.”

What Happens Next

With the motion passing, the development permit is now approved.

The proponent can move forward with the project as long as all conditions are met, including the reclamation requirement and compliance with municipal, provincial and federal regulations.