FR 2021-01408

The document from the Federal Register announces a scheduled teleconference by the National Science Board's Awards and Facilities Committee. It is set for January 26, 2021, and will address certain business matters including the Mid-scale Research Infrastructure Track 2 awards. The meeting is described as closed and participants will convene via a teleconference hosted by the National Science Foundation in Alexandria, Virginia. For those seeking more information, Michelle McCrackin is the point of contact.

Summary of the Document

This notice informs the public about a teleconference organized by a committee of the National Science Board. The meeting will focus on board matters relevant to Mid-scale Research Infrastructure Track 2 awards, although specific details about these discussions are not provided. It emphasizes the closed nature of the meeting, meaning it is not open to public attendance.

Significant Issues and Concerns

One of the primary concerns is the lack of detail concerning the agenda and the specifics of the discussion around Mid-scale Research Infrastructure Track 2 awards. The notice does not provide attendees with clear insights into what these discussions will entail or their importance. Moreover, declaring the meeting "Closed" without further explanation as to why it cannot be open to the public raises transparency issues. Public agencies typically have a responsibility to clarify the rationale behind limiting access to such sessions. Additionally, the absence of any follow-up actions or expected outcomes from this teleconference may suggest a lack of accountability or clarity on the purpose the meeting seeks to serve.

Impact on the Public

For the general public, this notice may hold limited immediate impact unless they have a vested interest in the operations and decisions of the National Science Board. However, the discussions around Mid-scale Research Infrastructure could have long-term implications, affecting community resource allocations, infrastructural developments, and possibly even education or research opportunities that might arise from these award decisions. Its closed nature might lead to a sense of exclusion from important governmental processes.

Impact on Specific Stakeholders

Specific stakeholders, including scientists, research institutions, and potentially local governments, may be directly impacted by the decisions made in this teleconference, especially if they are seeking funding or support from Track 2 awards. The lack of detail and transparency could create uncertainty or inhibit their ability to adequately prepare or respond to outcomes that could emerge from these discussions.

In conclusion, while the document serves the purpose of announcing an official meeting, it prompts important questions about transparency and public engagement. It highlights the need for clearer communication to better inform both the wider public and invested stakeholders about the critical discussions unfolding in governmental contexts.