Item:
Title
Budget Ordinance Amendment No. 21BCC000042 to Recognize $200,000 from North Carolina Biotechnology Center for a Local Economic Development Award to bluebird bio
Body
Date Of BOCC Meeting: September 28, 2020
Request For Board Action:
Agenda Text
The Board is requested to approve Budget Ordinance Amendment No. 21BCC000042 to recognize $200,000 from the North Carolina Biotechnology Center for a Local Economic Development Award (EDA) to then be disbursed by the County to bluebird bio. The NC Biotechnology Center has agreed to provide an economic development grant award through the County to encourage the expansion and maintenance of new business operations in Durham County. By disbursing the funds to the local unit of government, the County is able to maintain a direct relationship with bluebird bio.
As part of their agreement, bluebird bio will create and maintain at least seventy (70) new FTEs by February 1, 2021 through the following year. Included as part of the agreement's use of funds are the following community engagements and benefits:
* bluebird bio values engaging its community and providing opportunities for local residents to learn more about gene therapy. Presenting to student classes and hosting virtual class for Durham Public School (DPS) students are mechanisms to help bluebird build relationships with Durham residents and directly connect with potential future employees. As part of the DPS 3-2-1 work-based learning program for high school students, these would also serve as the awareness and exposure events. Proposed Virtual Classes:
- GMP Fundamentals (High School), 60 minutes or more
- Pharmaceutical Environmental Sustainability (College), 60 minutes or more
* bluebird also values reducing its impact on the environment and its carbon footprint. The Sterilwave purchased with these funds will allow bluebird to reduce the volume of biological waste from single use process components. This will lead to 80% fewer shipments of...
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