AGENDA CAPTION:
Title
Receive a presentation from the Greater San Marcos Partnership regarding economic development opportunities associated with the Army Futures Command, and provide direction to the City Manager.
Body
Meeting date: October 16, 2018
Department: CMO - Steve Parker, Assistant City Manager / CFO
Amount & Source of Funding
Funds Required: N/A
Account Number: N/A
Funds Available: N/A
Account Name: N/A
Fiscal Note:
Prior Council Action: Resolution 2018-185R, approving an agreement with the Greater San Marcos Economic Development Corporation (GSMP) for Economic Development Services, was approved by City Council on October 1, 2018.
City Council Strategic Initiative:
N/A
Comprehensive Plan Element (s):
☒ Economic Development - Emerging Markets & Industry Relationships
☐ Environment & Resource Protection
☐ Land Use
☐ Neighborhoods & Housing
☐ Parks, Public Spaces & Facilities
☐ Transportation
☐ Not Applicable
Master Plan:
Vision San Marcos - A River Runs Through Us
Background Information:
On August 27, 2018 the Army unveiled the Austin area as the location for the headquarters of its new Futures Command, which has the monumental task of modernizing the service's future force.
For the first time, the Army will place a major command within an urban setting instead of on a military base. The goal is to bring itself closer to technology innovators and researchers in one of the nation's top growing technology cities.
"We needed to immerse ourselves in an environment where innovation occurs, at speeds far faster than our current process allows," said Secretary of the Army Mark T. Esper. "We searched for a location that had the right combination of top-tier academic talent, cutting edge industry and an innovative private sector."
The Army Futures Command is tasked with, among other things, developing future warfighting concepts, generating innovative solutions through research and development, and building the next generation of combat systems.
Army leadership said it will take about a year before Army Futures Command reaches full operational capability. The new command is expected to eventually include about 100 military positions and 400 civilian roles.
Adriana Cruz, President of the Greater San Marcos Partnership, will make a presentation regarding economic development opportunities associated with the Army Futures Command.
Council Committee, Board/Commission Action:
N/A
Alternatives:
N/A
Recommendation:
N/A