Chief Patron: Colgan
Co-Patron(s): Devolites, Howell, Mims, Puller, Saslaw, Ticer
GMU - Alt. financing for Conflict Analysis Facility (language only)

Item C-21 #1s

Language
Page 396, line 10, insert:
"A.  The General Assembly authorizes George Mason University, with approval of the Governor, to explore and evaluate an alternative financing scenario to provide a Conference Center for the Institute for Conflict Analysis and Resolution.  This project must be consistent with the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code 7 of October 1, 2003, and comply with the Treasury Board Guidelines issued pursuant to 23-19(d)(4), Code of Virginia, and subsequent amendments thereto.
B.  The General Assembly authorizes George Mason University to enter into a written agreement with a public or private entity to design, construct and finance a Conference Center for the Institute for Conflict Analysis and Resolution.  The Conference Center may be located on property owned by the Commonwealth.  All project proposals and approvals shall be in accordance with the guidelines cited in paragraph A of this item.
C.  In the event that the Conference Center for the Institute for Conflict Analysis and Resolution project is financed through alternative financing and constructed on land owned by or leased to a private University-related foundation, or owned by or leased to a private entity, such project shall continue to be exempt from all requirements of any county or city zoning ordinances; and such project shall be subject only to review of compliance with the Virginia Uniform Statewide Building Code."

Explanation
(This amendment authorizes George Mason University to pursue a public-private partnership and alternative financing options to construct a conference center for the Institute for Conflict Analysis and Resolution. The amendment also stipulates that if the facility is owned or leased by a private entity that it would receive the same exemptions from local zoning ordinances received by facilities owned by the University.)