In a recent city council meeting, communications manager Erin Grieves addressed public concerns regarding transparency and legality surrounding a meeting between Mayor Giles, City Manager Phil, and representatives from Perpetua Resources regarding the Stibnite Mine project. Grieves clarified that there was no violation of open meeting laws, emphasizing that individual council members can meet with anyone, provided a majority is not present.

The council discussed the need for improved communication with the public, particularly in light of ongoing concerns about the mine's potential socioeconomic impacts and hazardous materials management. Grieves proposed several options for engaging the community, including publishing a viewpoint in local media, conducting focus group sessions, and distributing surveys to gauge public sentiment.

Council members expressed skepticism about the timing of discussions on mitigation strategies, arguing that it may be premature to address these issues before the completion of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) process. They reiterated the importance of sticking to established protocols and ensuring that the community remains informed about the council's stance and ongoing efforts.

The council acknowledged the need for transparency and clear communication to counteract misinformation circulating in the community. They agreed on the importance of reaffirming their previous positions regarding the mine and committed to drafting a public statement to clarify their ongoing concerns and engagement with the NEPA process.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the council's commitment to transparency and community engagement as they navigate the complexities of the Stibnite Mine project and its implications for local residents.