Mr. Tabron met with the Deputy County Manager, County Attorney, and the Tax Administrator in early June. In the course of the meeting, Mr. Tabron was apprised that the request for financial assistance would be characterized as an economic development incentive. He also learned of the County’s limitations regarding economic development incentives for non-industrial projects. Therefore, on behalf of the Durham Housing Authority, Mr. Tabron requests that the Board of County Commissioners consider granting financial assistance for the Golden Belt effort.

Resource Person(s): James R. Tabron, Director of DHA; Wendell Davis, Deputy County Manager

County Manager’s Recommendation: Receive the presentation for information and decision-making purposes. Staff has worked with Mr. Tabron to attempt to identify mechanisms for financial support of the project. A proposal to grant Historic Property Designation is being recommended by staff and will come before the Board within the next 30 days. This Historic Property Designation would allow the Golden Belt Center to enjoy a fifty percent (50%) reduction in County taxes. However, after fully exploring all options staff has been unable to determine a mechanism to offer further financial support of the project under the County’s current mission and Economic Development Incentive Policy.

2. Closed Session

The Board is requested to adjourn to closed session pursuant to G.S. 143-318.11(a)(6) in order to consider the qualifications or conditions of initial employment of a public officer.