WASHINGTON, D.C. – Representative Joe Baca (D-Rialto) today met with officials from the City of Fontana and the Fish and Wildlife Service to discuss the future of the Delhi Sands Flower Loving Fly. The fly, an endangered species indigenous to the Inland Empire, has been a continuous obstacle for city officials wishing to develop vacant land.   

The purpose of today’s meeting was to brief Baca and city officials on the status of the city’s mitigation proposal for the fly habitat. The officials were informed that the announcement would be officially made in a report issued on October 25, 2003. But the outlook in favor of mitigation and approval for development does not seem likely. 

Baca, who has worked alongside city officials to help development in the Inland Empire, vowed that he would fight for resolution with the Fish and Wildlife Service and welcomed more communication to make the process proceed more smoothly. 

“I have always worked alongside the city of Fontana,” Baca said. “I have always supported growth and development in the Inland Empire. I don’t understand why one fly, who may or may not exist in our area can prevent the development of our community. Development means more jobs and economic prosperity. If we can successfully and scientifically relocate the fly, then the Fish and Wildlife Service should allow us to do so.  It would be a win for all.” 

The Fish and Wildlife Service is expected to issue a series of alternatives that could help the city develop without violating the Endangered Species Act.  

Congressman Baca, the City of Fontana and the Carlsbad Fish & Wildlife Service Office have scheduled a sit-down meeting this Friday in Fontana to discuss the Biological Opinion and the alternatives included in the opinion.    

“ We are anxious to review the alternatives,” Baca said. “Our next step will include whatever we can do to help expand growth, development and bring more jobs into the Inland Empire.”