Resident warns Sahuarita council that Hudbay ‘Copper World’ proposal threatens scarce water resources

Rick Corrado told the Town of Sahuarita council during the public-comment period that the Hudbay 'Copper World' mining proposal risks the community’s most precious resource: water. "Copper is not the most precious resource in Southern Arizona. It's water," Corrado said, urging the council to stop only listening and begin responding.

Corrado criticized Hudbay’s plans to export mined material and warned of air pollution, landscape damage and what he described as "gross misuse of our water quantity and quality." He cited the earlier rejection by Tucson and Pima County of a data-center project over water use and said the mining proposal would demand far more water.

Mayor Tom Murphy and Council Member Priolo noted the town is continuing to gather information. Council leadership said they will pursue meetings with state legislators and regulatory stakeholders; Council Member Priolo mentioned upcoming discussions and a meeting with Representative Gail Griffin to learn more about water-management options.

The council did not take formal action in response to Corrado’s remarks during the session. Council members later discussed adding Colorado River and rural groundwater issues to the town’s legislative priorities and asked staff and legal counsel to remain engaged on mining and water topics as they refine the town’s policy positions.

What happens next: Corrado asked for ordinances or resolutions to protect the community; council members and staff said they will continue research, pursue meetings with state policymakers and consider whether local ordinances or formal positions should be drafted for future council consideration.