Hamilton council candidate opposes data centres, pledges housing and transit reforms
The candidate running for councillor in Ward 1 says he would oppose AI data centre developments and reform the city's rental licensing program.
HAMILTON — A candidate for Hamilton city councillor in Ward 1 says he would oppose proposed AI data centre developments and reform the city's rental licensing program.
Mark Powell, one of four candidates running in the 2026 municipal election, outlined his platform to The Silhouette, focusing on housing, public transit and data centres.
On housing, Powell criticized the city's Rental Housing License program, which is currently in effect in wards 1, 8 and parts of ward 14.
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I have heard from many constituents that many non-registered housing units exist in the ward, and enforcement of the new rules does not seem to be occurring. I have heard from developers that the costs are so prohibitive they will not commit to smaller scale rental development in ward 1,
his statement read.
He said the program negatively impacts small-scale landlords who often serve students and proposed reducing the associated fee or unifying it with the safe apartments bylaw so all landlords pay fees on the same scale.
His platform also focuses on expanding city housing into Ward 1 and encouraging the development of mixed-use, dense housing in the ward.
On public transit, Powell pledged to make fares more affordable and improve the Hamilton Street Railway system.
He proposed reducing fares, arguing that as a public service, revenue should not be a factor in transit planning.
He also called for a review of HSR routes and services to make them more comprehensive and efficient, criticizing current bus service as inefficient.
a parade led by a full bus and several empty ones coming down Main street,
he said.
By making scheduling more dynamic, he suggested the city could reduce operating costs or shift spending to serve underserved areas in Hamilton.
When asked about improving McMaster students' connection to the city, Powell said he would turn to McMaster University and Mohawk College for planning and development studies.
the brightest minds and freshest perspectives should have a hand in designing our city,
Powell said.
He suggested this work could replace private consultations and studies, creating opportunities for students that could potentially kick-start careers.
On proposed AI data centre developments, Powell emphasized his opposition and pledged to respect residents' wishes against them.
He said he has spoken to experts in the field and believes Hamilton is not the right place for an AI data centre, specifically opposing the Steelport data centre proposal.
He emphasized the need to establish rules and regulations and listen to constituents, rather than to "rush" towards development.
Powell did not make specific pledges surrounding data centre development.
More information on Powell’s platform can be found on his campaign website, ward1mark.com.
Municipal elections across Ontario will take place on Oct. 26, 2026. McMaster students who live on- or off-campus in Hamilton are eligible to vote.