Developer seeks flexibility as Firefly industrial project advances; Rocky Mountain Power delay cited

A representative of a proposed industrial development (referred to as Firefly in the meeting) told the Fairfield council the project team continues to press Rocky Mountain Power for service and asked the council to allow early grading and site preparation while development and legal agreements proceed.

The developer said Rocky Mountain Power had not advanced the town’s application for weeks and that a utility executive had told them the project remained “on the vice president’s desk.” The developer said they planned to pursue temporary or interim power solutions if necessary to keep the project moving.

Town staff and the developer said they had discussed a draft development agreement and that the developer will return the agreement to the planning commission for review. The developer asked to begin some dirt‑moving under a land‑disturbance permit. Town staff said such permits are available and that grading is allowed at the developer’s risk and subject to erosion and dust controls.

Town counsel (Todd) advised that moving dirt prior to final subdivision approval is allowed if the developer obtains the appropriate land disturbance permits and complies with erosion controls; the developer also said the project would not dedicate roads to the town and would retain responsibility for construction and maintenance of internal roads.

Developer representatives said they will meter water used during initial work, adhere to required soil and dust controls and coordinate inspections with town engineering staff. Council members and staff emphasized the importance of recordkeeping, permits and clear responsibilities so the town is not left with unfinished infrastructure.