A&M Regents Grant Permission for RELLIS Manufacturing Project; Tax Break Talks begin in Bryan

BRYAN, Texas

The Texas A&M Board of Regents recently approved an agenda item granting A&M officials the authority to commence negotiations concerning the terms of agreements and a ground lease for a manufacturing facility at the RELLIS campus in Bryan. The approval was given during a special meeting, following an executive session.

The details of this potential project remain largely hidden due to a non-disclosure agreement. John Sharp, the A&M Chancellor, disclosed minimal information about this project earlier last month, claiming it could be a game-changer for the area. However, the timeline for the official announcement has not been confirmed by university officials.

Paving the Way for the Project

On Tuesday, both the Bryan City Council and Brazos County Commissioners Court are set to consider approving a tax abatement agreement. This notable approval could potentially pave the way for the said project at the RELLIS campus. Despite keeping the manufacturer’s name confidential, legal notices suggest that the upcoming tax abatement agreements are with a company named America’s Foundry Bryan LLC.

According to the web-based records, the scope of the project involves a minimum of $5 billion in buildings and other property improvements, coupled with an equal amount in tangible personal property, including machinery and equipment. The project is geared towards housing one or more manufacturing plants and other associated facilities to support operations.

Economic Implications and Potential Growth

Propelled by the Texas A&M University System’s RELLIS Campus vision, America’s Foundry Bryan, LLC holds the promise of substantial economic growth for Bryan. Projections estimate job creation escalating from 25 jobs in the first year to 1,800 by the tenth. Expected ad valorem tax revenue for the city is set to be as high as $31.2 million annually after seven years, a significant increase from the initial $124,800 in the first year.

The project will cover a 288-acre plot on the RELLIS campus, an area designated as a reinvestment zone to allow for property tax breaks. Staff from Bryan city stated that this designation aims to attract an important economic development project in collaboration with the A&M System. Engagement with potential prospects has been ongoing for the past year and has involved officials from the A&M System, as well state and federal governments.

Keeping the Details a Mystery

While the specifics of the project remain largely under wraps, the Mayor of Bryan, Bobby Gutierrez, confirmed having signed a non-disclosure agreement that legally restrains him from revealing certain aspects associated with this potentially transformative economic venture. Both the Commissioners Court of Brazos County and the Bryan City Council will consider the approval of a tax abatement agreement with America’s Foundry Bryan, LLC at their respective meetings in the coming week.