Copperwood Mine foes sue to block $50M grant for project near Lake Superior

Opponents are seeking legal action to prevent a $50 million grant awarded by Michigan for a copper mine project near Lake Superior. The grant, approved in August, was intended to fund the construction of Highland Copper's Copperwood Mine in the western Upper Peninsula. The money was sourced from the Michigan Strategic Fund, which has a history of controversy due to limited job growth and local backlash.

Critics argue that the grant lacks proper oversight and sets a dangerous precedent for future public money given to foreign companies. The project's proponents claim it will significantly boost the local economy over its 11-year lifespan. Highland Copper, the Canadian company behind the project, has estimated construction costs at $450 million and expects to hire 380 workers at an average wage of $80,000.

Despite multiple attempts to secure the funding through appropriations committees and state budget votes, the project was only approved after the Strategic Outreach and Attraction Reserve (SOAR) fund was depleted.