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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