As the 2013 legislative session begins this month, Georgia Tech’s Office of Government and Community Relations will be focused on conveying Tech’s legislative priorities to Georgia’s leaders.   

“Our number one priority for this year is securing $5 million in bonds to complete and equip the Engineered Biosystems Building (EBB), which will provide 200,000 square feet of multidisciplinary research space,” said Dene Sheheane, executive director of Government and Community Relations. “It’s a facility that will allow for collaboration across campus and across institutions and will help provide a competitive advantage for the state.”

As a result of the $59 million awarded in fiscal year 2013, the EBB site has been cleared and construction has begun. The Institute has committed $49 million in institutional and private funds to leverage the total $64 million request for bonds issued by the state.

Sheheane and his colleagues will also advocate for the following initiatives:

• Secure $1.875 million for the rehabilitation of the Lloyd W. Chapin Building. Originally constructed as Tech’s infirmary, the Chapin Building is more than 100 years old. “This renovation will significantly improve academic support facilities for our students,” Sheheane said. 
• Secure $96 million in new formula funds to be shared by all University System of Georgia (USG) institutions in support of critical day-to-day operations. “These funds are particularly essential to maintaining Tech’s academic quality and faculty-student ratio in light of steady enrollment growth,” Sheheane said.
• Secure $50 million in major repair and rehabilitation funds to be shared by all USG institutions to repair aging facilities.
• Secure renewal of the provision allowing carry-forward of certain USG funds. “Under this provision, Tech can carry a small amount of funds from one fiscal year to the next,” Sheheane said.  

Another important and ongoing annual priority is state support for GTRI and EII. These organizations provide a significant benefit to the state and Tech officials will highlight their work and need for continued support.

“It’s important to remember that our state has continued to funnel about 10 percent of the state’s overall revenues to the USG, while many states have redirected funds to other priorities,” Sheheane added.

During the legislative session, the Office of Government and Community Relations also engages external partners in sharing Tech’s story. Members of the Capitol Jackets group, which includes alumni and partners on campus, receive a biweekly newsletter with updates. To join, click here.