Orange County NC Website
Up to this point the discussion has revolved around the process employed by Austin and the incentives <br />offered. What has not been discussed is what the City has required of these companies in return. The <br />discussion below describes such requirements using the example of the most recent Economic <br />Development Agreement reached between the City and HelioVolt. <br />HelioVolt is a manufacturer of glass <br />laminate modules for use in commercial, <br />residential, solar farm, and custom <br />applications. It uses proprietary thin -film <br />solar technology and intends to provide a <br />more cost - competitive product than <br />competitors. The proprietary technology <br />was invented by the company's founder and <br />first CEO. <br />In November of 2007, HelioVolt and the City of Austin entered into an Economic Development <br />Agreement. The Agreement includes the following provisions: <br />• HelioVolt will create at least 168 full -time jobs and invest at least $80 million within 5 <br />years in real property, equipment and machinery. <br />• If the number of jobs falls below 168 (voluntarily or involuntarily), HelioVolt has 3 <br />months to reestablish that number of jobs or the agreement is terminated. <br />• HelioVolt will utilize local non - profits in hiring and recruitment efforts, including: <br />• National Society of Black Engineers <br />• Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers <br />• Career Expo for People with Disabilities <br />• Out and Equal Summit (LGBT) <br />• HelioVolt agrees not to employ undocumented workers and must repay all grants with <br />5% interest if found in violation. <br />• HelioVolt will use "reasonable best efforts" to include HUBS (Historically Under- <br />represented business) in its supply chain. <br />• The City will reimburse 60% of property taxes paid on all acquired personal property, <br />real improvements, and on the increase in taxable value beyond the existing base value <br />of $390,000. <br />• Payments shall be made from budget appropriations each October for taxes paid the <br />previous calendar year. <br />• Each party has 90 days to cure any default. <br />r., w1 o. o --- CI- *_ l`Of _f Actin ­#!m faA rni Grnnnmir flavalnnmant r:nmmiffaa <br />40% of New Property Taxes for 10 year term <br />1$404,678 <br />Sales Tax from New Employee Spending <br />1 $536,010 <br />961Page <br />