July 24, 2020
Judge Approves Stipulation Allowing FG’s Planned Activities To Continue
Welcome, LA -- A federal court in Washington, D.C. today approved an agreement between the federal government, FG LA LLC and plaintiffs suing to stop The Sunshine Project that permits planned activities to continue on FG’s Sunshine Project site in St. James Parish. Planned activities on the project will proceed.
The agreement reached allows planned activities underway at the site to move forward. These activities include the widening of Highway 3127, utilities relocations, soil testing, placement of test piles, and a pipeline removal, which were highlighted in newspapers ads and mailings to parish residents. FG had adjusted its schedule to postpone construction of its contractor dock until at least February 2021 prior to the preliminary injunction being filed. At the same time, plaintiffs agreed to dismiss their motion for preliminary injunction and established an orderly schedule for resolution of the pending lawsuit.
The plaintiffs filed a flawed preliminary injunction motion against FG’s project, and FG engaged in extensive consultation with the plaintiffs and federal government outlining planned activity on the Sunshine Project through February 2021. The plaintiffs then agreed to withdraw their unsupported motion for preliminary injunction while FG continues its planned activities.
“FG has always taken great care to protect and not disturb the known burial area. For example, the Buena Vista burial site has been fenced off and protected since remains were discovered. FG has always taken great care to honor all of its commitments regarding wetlands. As part of this agreement, FG will flag sensitive areas and provide monthly activity reports to the plaintiffs,” said Janile Parks, Director of Community and Government Relations for FG. “These further protections demonstrate FG’s stewardship in protecting sensitive areas.”
FG regularly shares anticipated activities and updates with the community and describes in detail the company’s plans via the project website and the local News Examiner-Enterprise. FG is also working with St. James Parish government to provide timely construction and traffic alerts via text messaging and social media.
The local community should be aware that the environmental review and permitting process conducted for The Sunshine Project was properly conducted and complies with federal law. Preconstruction activities FG is conducting on the project property are being implemented in a safe and environmentally protective manner.
“FG is committed to the St. James community and to preserving its rich history and cultural resources and seeks cooperation as we focus efforts on addressing and resolving the issues raised in the lawsuit,” Parks said.