The Idaho House Resources and Conservation Committee voted unanimously and with little debate on Monday, Jan. 28, to send a joint memorial to the full House asking the federal government to expedite the permitting process for Itafos Conda’s new Husky 1/North Dry Ridge project near Soda Springs.
Committee Chairman Marc Gibbs, R-Grace, is sponsoring the proposal in the House, while Sen. Mark Harris, R-Soda Springs, who represents the same legislative district, is sponsoring it in the Senate. Gibbs noted that the phosphate industry and agriculture are the two driving forces in their district, where the open pit phosphate mine would be located.
Itafos Conda General Manager Tim Vedder testified before the committee that there is only enough ore left in an existing mine to last for up to six years. Vedder said Itafos Conda employs 286 people and another 220 contractors in the area. Their annual salaries average $70,000, in addition to full health benefits, a 401(k) retirement program, and four weeks of vacation.