0821RESOLUTION NO. 821 (#06 - 2022)
A RESOLUTION APPROVING AND GRANTING
AUTHORIZATION TO MAYOR JOHNSON AND OTHER CITY
OF JACKSONVILLE OFFICIALS TO BEGIN NEGOTIATIONS
WITH VIRGINIA INNOVATION PARTNERSHIP
CORPORATION, PLANET DEFENSE LLC, AND ROKEE INC.
TO DEVELOP AN INNOVATION HUB IN THE CITY OF
JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS; AND, FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
WHEREAS, the Federal government and many state governments are
incentivizing public-private partnerships to create a national network of Innovation
Hubs that will bring, identify, develop and test Internet of Things (IoT) and other
emerging technology innovations that will serve each respective community.
WHEREAS, the development of an Innovation Hub in the City of
Jacksonville will allow better access to broadband networks, sensor -driven data,
analytics, and newly enabled information applications. Benefits of an Innovation
Hub have the potential to form new technology-based job opportunities, new public
services, and cost efficiencies of using data proactively to address local issues.
WHEREAS, Planet Defense, LLC, a Virginia based company, has entered
into a partnership with the Virginia Innovation Partnership Corporation (VIPC),
supported by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and other federal
agencies to develop a national network of Innovation Hubs.
WHEREAS, Rokee, Inc. has partnered with Planet Defense to develop a
regional Innovation Hub in Arkansas.
WHEREAS, after consideration, it is hereby found that it is in the best
interest of the City to begin concept discussions and negotiations with VIPC, Planet
Defense LLC, and Rokee Inc.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS, THAT:
SECTION ONE: The Mayor, City Clerk, and other designated officials
of the City of Jacksonville, Arkansas, are hereby authorized to enter into concept
discussions and negotiations between the City of Jacksonville and VIPC, Planet
Defense LLC, and Rokee Inc. The City Council recognizes and agrees that doing so
will benefit the City of Jacksonville and its citizens.
RESOLUTION NO. 821 (#06 - 2022)
Page Two
SECTION TWO: Prior to the execution of any agreement or contract
necessary for the development of an Innovation Hub in the City of Jacksonville, the
Mayor, City Clerk, and designated officials will present all required plans,
agreements, or contracts for the consideration and approval of the City Council of
Jacksonville.
SECTION THREE: Any other Resolutions in conflict herewith are hereby
repealed to the extent of said conflict. This Resolution shall be in effect from and
after its date of passage.
APPROVED AND ADOPTED THIS 6TH DAY OF OCTOBER, 2022.
CITY OF JACKSONVILLE, ARKANSAS
BOB JOHNSON, YO
ATTEST:
9
SUSAN DAVITT, CITY CLERK
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
STE IE FRIEDMAN, CITY ATTORNEY