Throughout January, the Hermosa CPBA Signatories continued to make measured, collaborative progress on the Community Protection & Benefits Agreement (CPBA). Efforts this month focused on strengthening early commitments (Early Actions Agreement), planning long-term protections and benefits, and preparing for upcoming community engagement milestones.
Highlights
Community Early Action Funding
Signatories conducted a review of the initial draft Early Actions Community Investment Funding Agreement. This document establishes an agreement for South32 to finance early actions identified by the University of Arizona Asset Inventory, Gap Analysis, and Innovative Pathways and local Topic-Specific Focus Groups conducted in 2025. It enables Early Action benefits to be funded by South32 and implemented by the Signatories, including the Protections Roadmap.
Early Actions: Building momentum while planning ahead
The Early Actions Community Investment Agreement is a standalone agreement, separate from the CPBA, which was developed based on the University of Arizona Asset Inventory, Gap Analysis, and Innovative Pathways study, insights from Topic-Specific Focus Groups, and input from the Signatories. These actions are designed to address near-term priorities while establishing a strong foundation for longer-term protections and community benefits. The hope of the Signatories is that the Early Actions Community Investment Funding Agreement will be ready to sign in early March.
Signatories reaffirmed that community input will remain central as the CPBA progresses. Opportunities for public participation in later phases are anticipated following the release of the Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS) expected March 6th.
Roadmap transparency and access
To support clarity and shared understanding, Signatories have posted the full Roadmap Report on www.cpba-hermosa.org for public awareness. They will also post upcoming public meetings or presentations, with dates to be announced.
Phase 1 Protections Expert
A Request for Proposals for an expert to implement the Protections Roadmap developed by Spheros was distributed to 15 qualified firms. Five firms have expressed interest, with proposals due in February.
Looking ahead
In the weeks ahead, Signatories will continue refining the Contribution Agreement, advancing Early Actions planning, and preparing for future community engagement opportunities. Additional updates and materials will be shared as they become available.
January Website Submissions:
- Three Survey Submissions
- Three Comments/Messages
These inputs are considered and discussed by the Signatories as part of community engagement efforts to understand community concerns and interests.