AGENDA DATE: 12/3/2025
TITLE:
Resolution to Support Virginia Business Ready Expedited Permitting Program Application
SUBJECT/PROPOSAL/REQUEST: Consider approving a Resolution to support a Virginia Business Ready Expedited Permitting Program Application
ITEM TYPE: Consent Action Item
STAFF CONTACT(S): Richardson, Herrick, Henry, Kilroy
PRESENTER (S): N/A
LEGAL REVIEW: Yes
REVIEWED BY: Jeffrey B. Richardson
BACKGROUND: The Virginia Business Ready Expedited Permitting Program is a state program authorized pursuant to Virginia Code § 2.2-2240.2:2, to allow for expedited permitting by state agencies for an economic development project by a traded-sector company involving significant capital investment and new job creation in the locality in which the project is located. The local governmental entity where a qualified project is located may submit a site for consideration for inclusion in this program.
STRATEGIC PLAN: Quality of Life - Encourage a vibrant community with economic and recreational opportunities that serve all community members.
DISCUSSION: Albemarle County has submitted the AstraZeneca project on the Rivanna Futures property for consideration for the Virginia Business Ready Expedited Permitting Program. Support from the Board is required as part of the process by the Commonwealth of Virginia.
This project meets the eligibility criteria as outlined in the Code of Virginia and the Expedited Permitting Program Guidelines. The project anticipates bringing over 600 jobs to Albemarle County, with average starting salaries of more than $160,000, and investing $4.5 billion to establish a pharmaceutical manufacturing facility. Inclusion in this state program mirrors Albemarle County’s commitment to a facilitated review process at the local level, and will allow the project to proceed with state approvals that will meet AstraZeneca’s timeline for opening its facility.
BUDGET IMPACT: There is no budget impact associated with this resolution.
RECOMMENDATION:
Recommendation
Staff recommends that the Board approve the attached Resolution (Attachment A) to have the AstraZeneca project considered for the Virginia Business Ready Expedited Permitting Program.
ATTACHMENTS:
A - Resolution