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Board recommends commissioners consider hiring energy lobbyist to improve county’s position on power projects
Summary
Citing concern Emery County is "not at the table" for energy projects, the board moved to recommend that county commissioners consider hiring an energy lobbyist (John Cox was discussed) and offered to use board funds to offset some costs; the motion passed by voice vote.
Members of the Emery County Economic Development Board expressed concern that the county is not being included in regional energy conversations and recommended that county commissioners consider hiring an energy lobbyist to help the county build relationships with utilities and state energy policy makers.
Brock Johansson described discussions with John Cox, a lobbyist with experience in energy regulation and ties to utility stakeholders, and said Cox indicated a fee of about $60,000 per year to represent both Emery and Carbon counties. Board members argued that professional representation could get Emery "to the table" for discussions about solar, gas and nuclear projects and help mend relationships with Pacificorp. "We're not at the table," one board member said, summarizing the group's concern.
The board moved to recommend that the county commission explore hiring an energy lobbyist and indicated willingness to contribute some of the board’s funds to help offset costs; the motion passed by voice vote. Members asked staff to pursue a meeting with John Cox and with commissioners to develop scope and funding options before any contract is signed.
Next steps: staff and interested board members will attempt to schedule a meeting with John Cox and the county commissioners to determine feasibility and scope.
