GLOBE — A small group of local dignitaries and interested parties met with Congresswoman Ann Kirkpatrick on Monday night looking for a good news update regarding the ongoing Copper Basin Jobs Project bill that promises 2,500 acres to Resolution Copper and 2,000 much needed jobs for the Copper Corridor.

Kirkpatrick started with a brief overview describing recent changes to the bill. “I originally introduced my own bill after meeting with several of you last year,” said Kirkpatrick. This bill has been under lockdown in the U.S. House National Parks and Public Lands Subcommittee, chaired by Congressman Raul Grijalva (D-AZ) of Tucson. “We went to leadership, and had difficulty getting through Grijalva’s committee,” she said.

Kirkpatrick assured those in attendance that the bill did not die, it has been given new life and a new form. Kirkpatrick’s reintroduction of Senator John McCain’s (R-AZ) bill with upgrades and new language will help smooth over any previous issues. “I haven’t given up on Grijalva,” she said. “But we now have two paths to help move things along.” The upgrades to this bill will provide for a full National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) review of the Oak Flat’s area. By meeting both Native American tribes and environmentalist half way, Kirkpatrick believes things will finally start to move forward. The congresswoman is planning on a three year window for the NEPA review. Her plans are now to reintroduce the Copper Basin Jobs Project through the House’s Natural Resources Committee Chairman Nick J. Rahall (D-WV).

Several people in attendance asked a series of questions in reference to the delays, timelines and “what exactly is holding things up”. One citizen made a comment that, “what‘s good for the community won’t pass through Congress.” The Congresswoman didn’t hesitate to reply, “I think it can!”

Kirkpatrick remained hopeful in her answers, continually reiterating that, “we need the jobs and Ariz. needs the economy. I am fighting everyday to get this done.”