Title
Chief Administrative Office recommending the Board receive and file an update regarding the County’s Bioeconomy Development Opportunity Zone Rating certification project and provide direction to staff if necessary.
FUNDING: Rural Business Development Grant Program Funds
Body
DISCUSSION / BACKGROUND
On September 10, 2024, the Board accepted the Rural Business Development Grant for $75,000 to fund a Bioeconomy Development Opportunity Zone Rating to attract bio-based businesses to the County.
On October 25, 2024, County entered into Agreement for Services 9048 with Ecostrat Inc., for $75,000 with a term of one year, to assist in providing the BDO Zone Rating certification.
Staff has partnered with the consultant to analyze the county's biomass and infrastructure resources, as well as the surrounding region’s access to woody biomass feedstock-specifically Forest Residuals and Sawmill Residuals-and other supply chain advantages related to infrastructure. The certification and regional risk rating received under the BDO Zone rating speed up biobased project development in rural communities.
The goal is to help the County utilize its biomass and infrastructure resources as a strong driver for bio-based economic growth.
ALTERNATIVES
The Board could choose not to receive the update on the BDO Zone analysis.
PRIOR BOARD ACTION
Legistar file 24-1509 - September 10, 2024 - The Board accepted the Rural Business Development Grant
Legistar file 24-0142 - February 6, 2024 - The Board approved the submittal of the Rural Business Development Grant
Legistar file 22-0601 - April 12, 2022 - The Board established the Biomass Congregation Facility Options Ad Hoc Committee
OTHER DEPARTMENT / AGENCY INVOLVEMENT
N/A
FINANCIAL IMPACT
There is no financial impact associated with this item.
CLERK OF THE BOARD FOLLOW UP ACTIONS
N/A
STRATEGIC PLAN COMPONENT
Priority: Explore the Feasibility of “Waste to Energy Industries”
CONTACT
Tara Stout, Principal Management Analyst
Chief Administrative Office