Thunder Bay mayor wants to keep talking with CN

Thunder Bay's mayor says he wants to keep negotiating with CN, even though the railway gave the city a "final offer"on how to repair the James Street Swing Bridge.

The city has until 5 p.m. on Tuesday to decide how to respond.

Keith Hobbs said he wants to keep negotiations open, and he says CN shouldn't take offence to his public education efforts.

"One party shouldn't back another party into a corner, he said.

And, as far as CN's comments about bringing this public, after 250-plus days [since the bridge was closed], the public has a right to know what's going on."

Hobbs said he believes the bridge is CN's property, and the railway should pay for repairs. However, he added he would be amenable to some cost sharing.

"I don't like to be backed into a corner. I don't think anyone should. Negotiations should always be open. So, is there a possibility of a counteroffer? I believe there always is."

Thunder Bay council is expected to discuss the matter in closed session on Monday night.

"I always think we should keep these things rolling, but, there does come a point where negotiations are stalling, and they won't look any further, then maybe we have to look at other options, Hobbs continued.

But I always like to keep an open mind."

CN Rail sent letters to the City of Thunder Bay and Fort William First Nation on Tuesday saying the rail line is not responsible for replacing the James Street bridge.

The railway interprets its century-old agreement to mean it is responsible for bridge maintenance in perpetuity, but not its replacement.