Mayor: community benefits agreement with Carissa Technology Parks near completion; special Nov. 20 meeting set

Mayor Surachi updated Lancaster City Council on Nov. 11 that negotiations with Carissa Technology Parks and its partners over a draft community benefits agreement (CBA) for two proposed AI hub campuses are nearing completion and a special council meeting is scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 20 at 6 p.m. in Council Chambers to review and vote on the agreement.

The mayor said the CBA framework addresses two principal areas: environmental and quality‑of‑life commitments, and community investments. On the environmental front, Carissa and its affiliates have committed to powering regular building operations with clean energy; because final power purchase agreements will be executed after construction, the CBA includes performance incentives and accountability provisions to help ensure the parties reach sustainability goals.

On community investments, the draft agreement provides for two distinct funds. The first is an economic development fund to promote local business vitality, technical assistance and workforce development; the Lancaster Economic Development Company will play a role in developing strategy while the Lancaster County Community Foundation is expected to manage the fund. The second is a sustainable development and clean energy fund to be managed by the City of Lancaster, guided by the city’s climate action plan and comprehensive plan.

The mayor encouraged residents to attend an open house hosted by Carissa Technology Parks on Nov. 12 at the Ware Center (42 North Prince Street, 5–7 p.m.) to learn more. The mayor thanked Carissa for responsiveness during negotiations and asked council to prioritize a timely review before the holiday season.

Council President Begay confirmed the special meeting will be advertised and posted on the city website.