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HomeMy WebLinkAboutEDAAgenda2025September4 ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY | THURSDAY,SEPTEMBER 4 | | 8:00 AM | COUNTY ADMINISTRATION BUILDING @ FIRST FLOOR CONFERENCE ROOM 107 KENT STREET WINCHESTER, VA 1. Call to Order 2. Approval of Minutes –August 7, 2025|| ACTION • Review and approval of minutes from last meeting, if appropriate 3. Treasurer’s Report || ACTION • Review and approval of latest Treasurer’s Report, if appropriate 4. Partner Showcase – Winchester-Frederick County Tourism • Presentation by EDA partners, Winchester-Frederick County Tourism, to include an overview of their operations and activities and how they interact with the EDA. 5. Framework Agreement for Fast Forward Scholarship Program || ACTION • Collaborative scholarship program for eligible Frederick County residents to participate in select FastForward workforce training programs offered by Laurel Ridge Community College’s Workforce Solutions 6. Update on Board of Supervisors' Action regarding Data Centers || INFORMATION • Plan to educate residents, businesses and community at-large about data centers, as directed by the Frederick County Board of Supervisors 7. Large Project Ready Sites Concept | Next Steps || INFORMATION • Update to the strategy to increase the availability of large project ready sites to facilitate new development and support larger scale projects. 8. Such other business as may come before this Authority MINUTES ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY | THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2025 | A meeting of the Frederick County Economic Development Authority was held on Thursday, August 7, 2025, at 8:00 a.m. in the County Administration Building, 1st Floor Conference Room, 107 N. Kent Street, Winchester, Virginia. PRESENT: Diane Kearns, Rick Till, Gary Lofton, Stan Crockett, Tina Murphy and Bryan Fairbanks. Judy McCann-Slaughter was absent due to a medical reason and her remote participation was approved by the Board members present. STAFF: Patrick Barker, Shayla Rickard, Wendy May and Donna McIlwee, Frederick County Economic Development Authority; Jay Tibbs, Assistant County Administrator; and Michael Bryan, EDA Attorney. MEETING CALLED TO ORDER: Chairman Till called the meeting to order at 8:00 a.m. PARTNER SHOWCASE – WORKFORCE SOLUTIONS AT LAUREL RIDGE COMMUNITY COLLEGE Mr. Barker introduced Jeanian Clark, VP Workforce Solutions, Laurel Ridge Community College, who was participating remotely. She then introduced Becky McKee, Director, Programming; and Anna Teter, Director, Operations, who were present in person. Ms. Clark presented an overview of the workforce training program offered at Laurel Ridge. Members of the EDA Board expressed interest in exploring the possibility of some EDA funding for Frederick County students who want to enroll in Fast Forward programs tied directly to our industry targets. Mr. Barker was directed to put something together for presentation at the September Board meeting. APPROVAL OF MINUTES The minutes of the June 5, 2025, meeting were presented. On motion duly made by Ms. Kearns and seconded by Mr. Crockett, the minutes were approved as presented by the following recorded vote: J. Stanley Crockett Aye Bryan Fairbanks Aye Diane Kearns Aye Page 2 of 3 Frederick County EDA Meeting Minutes | August 7, 2025 Gary Lofton Aye Judy McCann-Slaughter Aye Tina Murphy Aye Rick Till Aye TREASURER'S REPORT Mr. Barker submitted the following report: Checking Account - Bank of Clarke as of June 30, 2025 - $1690.22 Intrafi Account – Bank of Clarke as of June 30, 2025 - $3,201,190.83 On motion of Mr. Lofton, seconded by Mr. Fairbanks, the Treasurer’s Report was approved by the following recorded vote: J. Stanley Crockett Aye Bryan Fairbanks Aye Diane Kearns Aye Gary Lofton Aye Judy McCann-Slaughter Aye Tina Murphy Aye Rick Till Aye LARGE PROJECT READY SITES CONCEPT Mr. Barker reported that staff has actively engaged infrastructure providers to develop a comprehensive Site Evaluation Matrix. In consultation with the Assistant County Administrator and the EDA Chair, each site was assigned a priority level based on strategic and cost-efficiency criteria. Initial discussions have already been held with contacts for the top priority site. He is cautiously optimistic about this discussion and has found that the timeline for extending infrastructure is 8-10 years. He presented two options: smaller tracts (less than 100 acres) or pursuing rezoning only for larger tracts. Mr. Crockett stated there are lots of sewer and power projects due to growth right now and funds are limited. Mr. Lofton asked if we downsize to smaller tracts, is there sewer available in the short-term for those sites. Ms. Kearns stated that landowners are thinking short-term, not 8-10 years. Mr. Barker stated the landowner agreement could be changed to just cover rezoning. Page 3 of 3 Frederick County EDA Meeting Minutes | August 7, 2025 The Board recommended the following for Mr. Barker to consider: 1) Change timeframe in Agreement; 2) Consider alternates that make sense to move the County down the line; 3) Look at some smaller sites and do an evaluation on. SUCH OTHER BUSINESS AS MAY COME BEFORE THIS AUTHORITY Mr. Barker gave a data center update, reporting that staff has been directed to put together fact sheets about data centers. Ms. Kearns stated she would like to be a part of any community outreach on data centers. Mr. Barker reported the EDA office will be moving to the County Administration building on August 12. ADJOURN There being no further business to come before this Authority, the meeting was adjourned at 9:05 a.m. ________________________________ ____________________________ Richard Till Jay Tibbs Chairman Secretary TREASURER'S REPORT SYNOPSIS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY July 31, 2025 BANK OF CLARKE COUNTY Beginning Bank Statement Balance - as of June 30, 2025 $1,690.22 Total Deposits $5,000.00 Total Disbursements -$1,984.50 BANK STATEMENT BALANCE AS OF July 31, 2025 $4,705.72 BANK OF CLARKE - INTRAFI ACCOUNT Beginning Bank Statement Balance - as of June 30, 2025 $3,201,190.83 Total Deposits $9,055.01 Total Disbursements -$5,000.00 BANK STATEMENT BALANCE AS OF June 30, 2025 $3,205,245.84 TREASURER'S REPORT ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY June 30, 2025 BANK OF CLARKE COUNTY Beginning Bank Statement Balance - as of June 30, 2025 $1,690.22 Deposits 7/8/2025 Transfer from IntraFi Account $5,000.00 TOTAL DEPOSITS $5,000.00 Disbursements 1642 7/16/2025 Michael L. Bryan (Legal Fees) -$1,984.50 TOTAL DISBURSEMENTS -$1,984.50 BANK STATEMENT BALANCE AS OF July 31, 2025 $4,705.72 TREASURER'S REPORT ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY June 30, 2025 BANK OF CLARKE - INTRAFI ACCOUNT Beginning Bank Statement Balance - as of June 30, 2025 $3,201,190.83 Deposits 7/31/2025 Interest $9,055.01 TOTAL DEPOSITS $9,055.01 Disbursements 7/8/2025 Transfer to Bank of Clarke -$5,000.00 TOTAL DISBURSEMENTS -$5,000.00 BANK STATEMENT BALANCE AS OF July 31, 2025 $3,205,245.84 ** $1,907,000 represents proceeds from the sale of the Robinson School properties. Contact Us 1-800-650-8723 www.bankofclarke.bank Account Economic Development Authority of the Co Date 07/31/2025 Page 1 of 2 IntraFi Cash ServiceSM, or ICS®, Monthly Statement The following information is a summary of activity in your account(s) for the month of July 2025 and the list of FDIC-insured institution(s) that hold your deposits as of the date indicated. These deposits have been placed by us, as your agent and custodian, in deposit accounts through IntraFi Cash Service. Funds in your deposit accounts at the FDIC-insured institutions at which your funds have been placed will be "deposits," as defined by federal law. Certain conditions must be satisfied for "pass-through" FDIC deposit insurance coverage to apply. To meet the conditions for pass-through FDIC deposit insurance, deposit accounts at FDIC-insured banks in IntraFi's network that hold deposits placed using an IntraFi service are titled, and deposit account records are maintained, in accordance with FDIC regulations for pass-through coverage. Summary of Accounts Account ID Deposit Option Interest Rate Opening Balance Ending Balance Demand 3.33%$3,201,190.83 $3,205,245.84 TOTAL $3,201,190.83 $3,205,245.84 CONTAINS CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION IntraFi and ICS are registered service marks, and IntraFi Cash Service is a service mark, of IntraFi Network LLC. AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA Bank of Clarke PO Box 391 Berryville, VA 22611 Economic Development Authority of the Co 00000 RETURN SERVICE REQUESTED DETAILED ACCOUNT OVERVIEW Account ID: Account Title: Economic Development Authority of the Co Account Summary - Demand Statement Period 7/1-7/31/2025 Average Daily Balance $3,197,744.36 Previous Period Ending Balance $3,201,190.83 Interest Rate at End of Statement Period 3.33% Total Program Deposits 0.00 Annual Percentage Yield Earned 3.39% Total Program Withdrawals (5,000.00) YTD Interest Paid 61,259.02 Interest Capitalized 9,055.01 Current Period Ending Balance $3,205,245.84 Account Transaction Detail Date Activity Type Amount Balance 07/08/2025 Withdrawal ($5,000.00)$3,196,190.83 07/17/2025 Interest Capitalization 293.18 3,196,484.01 07/31/2025 Interest Capitalization 8,761.83 3,205,245.84 Summary of Balances as of July 31, 2025 FDIC-Insured Institution City/State FDIC Cert No.Balance BOKF, National Association Tulsa, OK $247,699.52 Cadence Bank Tupelo, MS 247,405.93 Citizens Bank, National Association Providence, RI 247,698.62 First National Bank Damariscotta, ME 247,699.52 First-Citizens Bank & Trust Company Raleigh, NC 247,699.52 Flagstar Bank, N.A.Hicksville, NY 247,663.40 Parkway Bank and Trust Company Harwood Heights, IL 233,182.21 Raymond James Bank St. Petersburg, FL 247,699.52 The Huntington National Bank Columbus, OH 247,699.52 Truist Bank Charlotte, NC 247,699.52 Valley National Bank Morristown, NJ 247,699.52 Western Alliance Bank Phoenix, AZ 247,699.52 Zions Bancorporation, N. A.Salt Lake City, UT 247,699.52 Date 07/31/2025 Page 2 of 2 CONTAINS CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION IntraFi and ICS are registered service marks, and IntraFi Cash Service is a service mark, of IntraFi Network LLC. DATE: August 29, 2025 TO: Board of Directors, Frederick County Economic Development Authority FROM: Patrick Barker, CEcD Executive Director CC: Jay Tibbs Deputy County Administrator RE: EDA Partner Showcase || Winchester-Frederick County Convention and Visitor Bureau Over the past year, EDA partners have been invited to present to the Board at a regular interval. The presentation includes an overview of the entity’s operations and activities and how they interact with the EDA. Tourism plays a role in economic development by generating revenue, creating jobs, and encouraging investment in both infrastructure and local enterprises. As visitors spend money on accommodations, dining, transportation, and entertainment, this spending directly fuels local economies and supports small businesses. An important dimension of tourism is its strategic role in place branding—shaping how a region is perceived globally. A strong tourism brand can attract not only visitors but also future residents, students, and investors. To that end, Justin Kerns, Director of the Winchester-Frederick County Convention and Visitors Bureau (WFCCVB) will present an overview of its operations and strategic initiatives as they relate to the Economic Development Authority’s (EDA) strategic plan. Established in 2001, the WFCCVB serves as the official destination marketing organization for Winchester and Frederick County. Its mission is to promote tourism by showcasing local service providers, cultural institutions, attractions, museums, and points of interest—driving economic benefit for the region through both direct and indirect channels. The Bureau plays a vital role in strengthening the local economy by positioning the region as a desirable travel destination, enhancing the overall visitor experience, and supporting tourism-related product development. The WFCCVB operates under the guidance of the Winchester-Frederick County Tourism Board, a 14-member body that includes: • Five private-sector voting representatives • Four public or nonprofit-sector voting representatives • Five non-voting representatives from economic development and local government For more information, visit visitwinchesterva.com. Stephens City Farmers Market New! Stephens City Farmers Market Now Open Saturdays at Newtown Commons Now expanded with a new location and even more vendors, the Stephens City Farmers Market is open May 3rd - Sept 27th, every Saturday from 9am - 12pm. Come check them out this Mother's Day Weekend for fresh baked treats, skincare products, crafts, candles, fresh flowers, and more! Mother's Day Weekend at the Farmers Market Guided Tours Begin May 16 Upcoming Events View the Complete Calendar May 9-24 Murder on the Orient Express Winchester Little Theatre  8/29/25, 11:53 AM Valley Voyager Monthly Newsletter - Winchester-Frederick County Convention & Visitors Bureau https://visitwinchesterva.com/newsletter/2/5 Experience 275 years of history on a guided walking tour! These tours are given by experienced and knowledgeable guides that enjoy sharing their love of local history. Make your reservation by calling the Visitor Center at 540-542-1326 or sign up online. Cost: $10, payable to the guide, cash only. Tours are offered May – October 1st and 3rd Fridays at 6pm, no tour July 4. Sign Up ›› Newtown Heritage Festival Memorial Day Weekend May 11 Mother's Day Brunch West Oaks Farm Market May 16-18 N-SSA Spring National Competition Fort Shenandoah May 17 Vintage Baseball Game Cedar Creek Battlefield Foundation May 17 Fort Loudoun Day Fort Loudoun  8/29/25, 11:53 AM Valley Voyager Monthly Newsletter - Winchester-Frederick County Convention & Visitors Bureau https://visitwinchesterva.com/newsletter/3/5 This free family festival includes a parade, food vendors, a classic car show, kids activities, food vendors, live entertainment, fireworks, and more. This year, the 2025 Newtown Heritage Festival trolley tour will celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary by covering Revolutionary War Veterans from town! Tours will depart from Capon Valley Bank (5511 Main Street) at 10:00am, 11:30am, and 4:00pm. Advanced tickets are required, and can be found at: https://www.eventbrite.com/o/newtown- heritage-festival-79426983013 Festival Information & Trolley Reservations ›› May 26 Loudoun Street Mile Old Town Winchester May 31 Triple Peak Gran Fondo Briedé Family Vineyards Step Back in Time at Wayside Inn This historic property is said to be the oldest continuously operating inn in the United States. Enjoy dinner, live entertainment, and unique lodging in Middletown, Virginia. NEW! Official Visitors Guide Start planning your next trip to Winchester/Frederick County.  8/29/25, 11:53 AM Valley Voyager Monthly Newsletter - Winchester-Frederick County Convention & Visitors Bureau https://visitwinchesterva.com/newsletter/4/5 DATE: August 29, 2025 TO: Board of Directors, Frederick County Economic Development Authority FROM: Patrick Barker, CEcD Executive Director CC: Jay Tibbs Deputy County Administrator RE: Framework Agreement for Fast Forward Scholarship Program Discussion following last month’s presentation by Laurel Ridge Community College – Workforce Solutions (LRCC-WS) as part of the Partner Showcase focused on having a pipeline of skilled workers and how that becomes a top factor in business location and expansion decisions. A competent workforce training system not only enhances employability and wages for residents but also ensures that Frederick County’s economy can meet the demands of modern industry. Staff was directed to develop a structure for a scholarship program with Laurel Ridge Community College – Workforce Solutions (LRCC-WS) to address the funding issues associated with the Fast Forward program. I am pleased to present for your review and approval the attached draft Scholarship Program Agreement between the Frederick County Economic Development Authority (EDA) and LRCC-WS. This agreement establishes a collaborative scholarship initiative that will provide $200,000 in funding to support at least 50 Frederick County residents accessing select FastForward workforce training programs during the term September 4, 2025 – June 30, 2026. Through this partnership, eligible county residents will gain critical skills in high-demand occupations in the EDA Target Industry Sectors such as CDL training, electrical trades, HVAC, mechatronics and welding. LRCC-WS will administer the program, verify eligibility, and provide quarterly reporting to the EDA on enrollment, completion, and job placement outcomes. This initiative aligns well with the EDA’s Talent Engagement goal of addressing current and projected workforce needs by engaging the talent in Frederick County and greater community encouraging their retention and attraction. Moreover, this partnership strives to meet industry needs, and strengthen is Frederick County’s economic development capacity. Please find the full agreement attached for consideration. Recommendation: Approve the proposed framework for the Scholarship Program Agreement with LRCC-WS, effective September 4, 2025. Scholarship Program Agreement Framework Between Frederick County Economic Development Authority (“EDA”) and Laurel Ridge Community College – Workforce Solutions (“LRCC-WS”) Effective Date: September 4, 2025 Term: September 4, 2025 – June 30, 2026 1. Purpose The purpose of this Agreement is to establish a collaborative scholarship program for eligible Frederick County residents to participate in select FastForward workforce training programs offered by Laurel Ridge Community College’s Workforce Solutions division. This initiative is intended to enhance local workforce skills, address critical industry needs, and support economic development in Frederick County, Virginia. 2. Program Scope 2.1 Eligible Programs LRCC-WS will make available a list of approved FastForward programs for scholarship participation. Approved programs may include, but are not limited to: • Commercial Driver’s License (CDL-A)* Weekday and Weekend Options • Commercial Driver’s License (CDL-B) Weekday and Weekend Options • Electrical Level 1 Apprenticeship • Electrical Level 2 Apprenticeship • Electrical Level 3 Apprenticeship • Electrical Level 4 Apprenticeship • Heavy Equipment Operator Level 1 • Heavy Equipment Operator Level 2 • Heavy Equipment Operator Level 1 – ONLINE Hybrid • HVAC Level 1 Apprenticeship • HVAC Level 2 Apprenticeship • HVAC Level 3 Apprenticeship • HVAC Level 4 Apprenticeship • Mechatronics: Applied Fluid Power • Mechatronics: Applied Industrial Motor Controls • Mechatronics: Applied Mechanical Systems • Mechatronics: Applied PLC • Mechatronics: Applied Product ID Fundamentals • Mechatronics: Applied Robotics • Mechatronics: Fundamentals of Electricity • Mechatronics: Fundamentals of Fluid Power • Mechatronics: Fundamentals of Mechanical Systems • Mechatronics: Fundamentals of PLCs • Mechatronics: Fundamentals of Robotics • Mechatronics: Fundamentals of Sensor Technology Page 2 of 3 Scholarship Program Agreement Framework *DRAFT* • Welding: Flux Core Arc Welding (FCAW/Flux) • Welding: Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW/MIG) • Welding: Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW/TIG) • Welding: Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW/Stick) • SHRM Certification Preparation Course 2.2 Target Participants Applicants must: • Be a current resident of Frederick County, Virginia; • Meet FastForward eligibility criteria; • Demonstrate intent to work in a related industry within the region. 3. EDA Responsibilities The EDA agrees to: a. Provide a total scholarship funding in the amount of $200,000 for at least 50 participants during the term of this Agreement. b. Disburse payments to LRCC-WS in accordance with the payment schedule outlined in Section 5. c. Promote the scholarship program through EDA communication channels, including website, social media, and community outreach. d. Collaborate with LRCC-WS on program evaluation and reporting. 4. LRCC-WS Responsibilities LRCC-WS agrees to: a. Administer the scholarship funds exclusively to eligible Frederick County residents enrolled in approved FastForward programs. b. Verify participant eligibility and maintain appropriate documentation. c. Provide the EDA with quarterly progress reports that include: • Number of applicants and recipients; • Program completion rates; • Job placement outcomes, where available. d. Include EDA recognition on program promotional materials and media releases. 5. Funding and Payment Schedule • The EDA will provide a total scholarship fund of $200,000 for the term of this Agreement. • Payment will be made in three installments (December 31st, March 31st, June 30th) upon receipt of an invoice from LRCC-WS accompanied by a list of funded participants. 6. Reporting & Evaluation Both parties agree to jointly review program performance at the end of each program cycle. Evaluation metrics may include enrollment numbers, completion rates, industry certifications earned, and post-training employment outcomes. Page 3 of 3 Scholarship Program Agreement Framework *DRAFT* 7. Term & Termination This Agreement will remain in effect for the term specified above unless: • Terminated earlier by either party with 30 days written notice; or • Extended by mutual written consent. In the event of early termination, LRCC-WS will return any unspent funds to the EDA. 8. General Provisions • Non-Discrimination: Both parties shall operate the scholarship program in compliance with all applicable non-discrimination laws. • Amendments: Any amendments to this Agreement must be made in writing and signed by both parties. • Governing Law: This Agreement shall be governed by the laws of the Commonwealth of Virginia. Current FastForward (WCG) Classes may include:  Commercial Driver’s License (CDL- A)* Weekday and Weekend OpƟons  Commercial Driver’s License (CDL-B) Weekday and Weekend OpƟons  CompTIA A+ Prep & CerƟficaƟon  CompTIA Cloud+ Prep & CerƟficaƟon  CompTIA CySA+ Prep & CerƟficaƟon  CompTIA Linux+ Prep & CerƟficaƟon  CompTIA Network+ Prep & CerƟficaƟon  CompTIA Project+ Prep & CerƟficaƟon  CompTIA SecurityX Prep & CerƟficaƟon  CompTIA Security+ Prep & CerƟficaƟon  CompTIA Server+ Prep & CerƟficaƟon  CompTIA Tech+ Prep & CerƟficaƟon  ConstrucƟon Project Management  Electrical Level 1 ApprenƟceship  Electrical Level 2 ApprenƟceship  Electrical Level 3 ApprenƟceship  Electrical Level 4 ApprenƟceship  Fiber OpƟc Installer  Heavy Equipment Operator Level 1  Heavy Equipment Operator Level 2  Heavy Equipment Operator Level 1 – ONLINE Hybrid  HVAC Level 1 ApprenƟceship  HVAC Level 2 ApprenƟceship  HVAC Level 3 ApprenƟceship  HVAC Level 4 ApprenƟceship  ITIL V.4 FoundaƟon Prep & CerƟficaƟon  Mechatronics: Applied Fluid Power  Mechatronics: Applied Industrial Motor Controls  Mechatronics: Applied Mechanical Systems  Mechatronics: Applied PLC  Mechatronics: Applied Product ID Fundamentals  Mechatronics: Applied RoboƟcs  Mechatronics: Fundamentals of Electricity  Mechatronics: Fundamentals of Fluid Power  Mechatronics: Fundamentals of Mechanical Systems  Mechatronics: Fundamentals of PLCs  Mechatronics: Fundamentals of RoboƟcs  Mechatronics: Fundamentals of Sensor Technology  Medical Assistant (CCMA) Program  PaƟent Service RepresentaƟve Program (PSR) (CMAA)  Pharmacy Technician  Phlebotomy Technician Program  Plumbing Level 1 ApprenƟceship  Plumbing Level 2 ApprenƟceship  Plumbing Level 3 ApprenƟceship  Plumbing Level 4 ApprenƟceship  SHRM CerƟficaƟon PreparaƟon Course  Welding: Flux Core Arc Welding (FCAW/Flux)  Welding: Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW/MIG)  Welding: Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW/TIG)  Welding: Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW/SƟck) 8/29/2025 1 Workforce Credentials Grant Program (WCG) •1st one-third of tuition (Student Portion) •Student pays 1/3 rd the cost of tuition at the time of registration. •Financial Aid is available to assist •2nd one-third (Completion) •Student must successfully complete the class or will be responsible to repay 2 nd one-third to the college (promissory note). •3rd one-third (Credential) •Student must successfully pass the independent industry credential within 120 of class end date for college to collect final 1/3rd of tuition. . 9 1st 1/3 The eligible student pays 1/3 of the cost of the noncredit workforce training program 2nd 1/3 When student completes workforce training program, college receives additional 1/3 rd31/3 When student receives industry-recognized credential, college receives final 1/3 •Commercial Drivers License Class A •FULL PRICE = $6,000 •Student must pay $2,000 (1/3 of full price) •If student qualifies for FANTIC, they pay nothing ($0) •If student successfully passes class, they owe nothing more. •If student fails the class, they will be invoiced for $2000 •Regardless of whether they obtain credential, they owe nothing more if they passed class. •Workforce classes are Satisfactory (pass) / Unsatisfactory (fail) FastForward Example… 10 9 10 8/29/2025 2 TheImpact of FastForward Credentials According to the Virginia Employment Commission, by 2026, there are expected to be 2.6M middle-skilled jobs in Virginia –jobsthatrequire some training, but not a four-year degree. There is a skills gap in Virginia’s workforce.FastForward is continuing to bridge the gap. What is FastForward? FastForward launched in 2016 as a pay-for-performance, accelerated career training program that prepares students to obtain third-party, industry- recognized credentials. Catering to adult learners,the average age of students in FastForward is 35,and 86% of FastForward students have not been enrolled at one of Virginia’s Community Colleges in the last 15 years. Over 43%of FastForward students are minorities. Over 60%of FastForward students have dependents. FastForward students who receive Workforce Credential Grants are more than two times as likely to receive SNAP/ TANF benefits than other college students. 52,900+ credentials earned since 2016 $11,746 On average, students saw an $11,746 increase in wages. “The community college is uniquely poised to handle training and education more effectively than anyone.” –DavidPeterson,ExecutiveDirector Solar Hands-on Instructional Network of Excellence (SHINE) MEETING BUSINESS DEMAND 1/3 paid for by the student 1/3 1/3 paid for by grant paid for by grant upon credential upon training attainment completion Paying for Success “ “ Outcomes and Results This program model focuses on success from the moment a student connects with the college. FastForward has a 95% program completion rate and 72% credential attainment rate.Following training, a majority of our students have full-time jobs with benefits and better work schedules. Quality of Life Enhancements 78% of graduates have paid vacation. 78% of graduates have employer-paid medical insurance. 86% of graduates are satisfied with their job duties. “[Going back to school] was the best thing I’ve ever done, because I absolutely love my job. I look forward to going to work, and Ihaven’t felt that wayinalongtime.” – Melinda Mutter, FastForward graduate “Luckily, the staff is here to help you achieve your goals. Because of the great instructors and workers in the program, in addition to their support, Ihave gained competency in my desired field and am able to pursue the career I chose.” – Aaron Winfree, FastForward graduate THE VCCS ADVANTAGE WORKFORCE WINS FastForward students are finding satisfaction in their careers post-credential. are satisfied with their work schedule. are satisfied with their pay. of graduates say their credential is something employers want. 92%81%86%71% are satisfied with their job stability. 0 5000 10000 15000 20000 25000 Business Education Healthcare Information Technology Logistics &Transportation Skilled Trades Welding &Manufacturing + $14,328 + $19,139 + $19,303 + $17,190 + $12,153 + $10,105 + $22,737 Average Wage Increase by Industry 11 12 DATE: August 29, 2025 TO: Board of Directors, Frederick County Economic Development Authority FROM: Patrick Barker, CEcD Executive Director CC: Jay Tibbs Deputy County Administrator RE: Update on Board of Supervisors' Action regarding Data Centers At their August 13th meeting, Frederick County Board of Supervisors directed staff (Planning and EDA) to conduct two tasks related to data centers. 1. Planning Staff will prepare and present an impartial and objective explanation of the characteristics, concerns, and opportunities associated with data centers as a land use. This will be in the form of a report and presentation to the Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors at their regular meetings. 2. The EDA will organize and conduct a Community Information Exchange Initiative on data centers to provide opportunities to provide residents, business owners, and civic leaders with clear, accessible, and fact-based information. This initiative will include representatives in the field of electrical power, public water, noise, and other related matters and will commence after the explanation document has been presented to Board of Supervisors. Current timing is later this Fall. DATE: August 29, 2025 TO: Board of Directors, Frederick County Economic Development Authority FROM: Patrick Barker, CEcD Executive Director CC: Jay Tibbs Deputy County Administrator RE: Large Project Ready Site Program | Current Status At its last meeting, the EDA Board directed staff to modify its strategy to expand the number of Large Project-Ready Sites. Refining the definition of “Large” to properties less than 100 acres was one modification. The definition of “Project-Ready” remained the same, meaning the property is industrially zoned and either has—or can feasibly obtain within 12 to 18 months—key infrastructure, including roads, water, wastewater, electric, and natural gas. Staff had identified properties and has begun the same internal assessment to identify and prioritize candidate properties in the previous analysis. Several properties look promising. At the end of the assessment, each property will be assigned a priority level based on a calculated per-acre cost, which includes: • The site's asking price • Estimated infrastructure costs to extend or upgrade utilities and access within the defined timeframe Staff has also re-engaged the top priority sites to gauge interest in a revised agreement that focus on rezoning exclusively.