Resolution Copper, Arizona Community Working Group Sign Landmark Good Neighbor Agreement
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Representatives from Resolution Copper, a joint venture between Rio Tinto and BHP, and communities and organizations around Superior, Arizona, signed a novel agreement, a Good Neighbor Agreement.
The agreement is forging a commitment for a two-way dialogue that will provide both sides with a means to meet the needs and interests of citizens, protect the environment and communities, help drive the local economy, support regional infrastructure, and plan for anticipated growth.
The parties commit to resolving issues and fostering continuous, open communication among stakeholders. More than a dozen community governments, non-profit organizations, and local citizens representing the interests of their communities, signed the agreement at the Town of Superior offices.
Historically, Good Neighbor Agreements have been established between U.S. Government Agencies, like the U.S. Forest Service, and communities to foster better communication, ensure safety and build trust. In this case, the agreement outlines in general how communities, governmental entities, businesses, organizations, and Resolution Copper Company intend to work together to resolve potential issues.
Resolution Copper looks to develop a world-class underground copper mine in the footprint of the Magma Copper Mine, near Superior. This historic mining region has experienced a boom-bust economy as a mining legacy. However, this agreement stands in stark contrast from the days of company towns and disregard for the environment.
“We are honored and grateful to enter into this historic agreement with the Town of Superior, local Copper Triangle communities and Pinal and Gila County,” said Vicky Peacey, Resolution Copper president.
“At Resolution Copper, we have co-designed the mine with local communities and we recognize the importance of continuing to actively engage with our neighbors and addressing their concerns. This agreement underscores our commitment to transparency, sustainability, and responsible mining practices,” added Peacey.
“Developing and signing the Good Neighbor Agreement is a historic milestone for the Town of Superior and our Copper Corridor Region,” said Town of Superior Mayor Mila Besich.
“This agreement will ensure that future generations of leaders in our communities and Resolution’s leadership have mutual assurances that we can all work together to grow thriving communities. It is also proof that when people gather together, break bread and have meaningful conversations, we can create sustainable solutions and long-lasting agreements,” added Besich.
More than 40 people attended the two-hour event.
The Community Working Group focuses on potential environmental impact issues, science and policy, economic development and growth, and the pros and cons of the proposed development of the Resolution Copper mine, which could become one of the world’s largest copper mining ventures. Members include residents and stakeholders from the Town of Superior, Queen Valley, and nearby communities. Topics include environmental stewardship, transportation, education, health, safety, natural resource issues, water and air quality and quantity, community investments, recreation, social changes and many other related subjects. The group was formed and has been meeting to discuss these issues and find consensus since 2013.
The Resolution Copper project is a proposed underground mine 60 miles east of Phoenix, Arizona, near the town of Superior. The project is a joint venture owned by Rio Tinto (55 percent) and BHP (45 percent). The ore deposit lies nearly 7,000 feet below the earth’s surface. It represents one of the most significant untapped copper deposits today. The mine has the potential to supply nearly 25 percent of US copper demand.
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