The Blueprint Intergovernmental Agency Board recently approved five agenda items, including leadership changes, economic development incentives, policy updates and steps toward advancing two major transportation projects.
The board elected Leon County Commissioner Bill Proctor as its new vice-chair, filling a vacancy created when City Commissioner Curtis Richardson became chair on June 1. Under Blueprint’s bylaws, the chairmanship rotates annually between a city commissioner and a county commissioner, requiring the vice-chair to come from the opposite governing body. Commissioner Proctor’s appointment places him in line to become chair following Richardson’s term.
The board also approved a $375,000 non-competitive economic development project request from Neighborhood Medical Center to support operational costs associated with a new pharmacy project. The agency’s review found the project includes a $213,628 private capital investment, is expected to create seven full-time jobs with competitive wages and could generate an estimated $3.9 million economic impact for the community.
In another economic development action, Blueprint approved a competitive incentive package for “Project Prestige,” an expansion proposal from a local advanced manufacturing company considering a new facility at Innovation Park. The project represents a potential $25 million capital investment, a 50,000-square-foot manufacturing center and 100 new manufacturing and research jobs over the next two years. The company is evaluating multiple locations, making the incentive package part of a broader effort to retain and expand local industry.
The board also directed staff to return with revisions to Blueprint’s Small Business Enterprise policy to ensure compliance with new state requirements. The review examined the agency’s Minority, Women, and Small Business Enterprise program, including certification standards, supplier diversity practices and participation goals following changes in Florida law affecting local diversity-related programs.
Finally, Blueprint approved eminent domain resolutions tied to two transportation projects: Airport Gateway and the Northeast Connector Corridor. The resolutions authorize the agency to pursue property acquisitions needed for bridge improvements on Springhill Road over Munson Slough and improvements along Bannerman Road. Officials said no residential or business relocations are required, and legal action would only be used as a last resort if negotiated property purchases cannot be completed.
The actions highlight Blueprint’s continued focus on transportation infrastructure, economic growth and compliance with changing state requirements.
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