Title
Receive a presentation on Digital Inclusion Plan, broadband grants, and digital Inclusion grants
Abstract
Introduction & Background: Broadband and Digital Inclusion are important issues for the Board of Commissioners, and the public. This presentation will serve as an introduction to the Chatham County Digital Inclusion plan before opening to the public for comment, provide an overview of the newly awarded Completing Access to Broadband (CAB) grant, and an update on digital inclusion grants.
Discussion & Analysis: Discuss the draft Chatham County Digital Inclusion Plan, and review Completing Access to Broadband (CAB) grant, ensuring alignment with community needs and priorities.
How does this relate to the Comprehensive Plan: This item relates to Objective 7: Provide infrastructure to support desired development and support economic and environmental objectives. Additionally, this item is relevant to the following:
- Health recommendation HL Policy 10, Strategy 10.1: Healthcare providers are reaching more people through online services and resources, emphasizing prevention through education and training. With access to broadband, County residents can improve personal health with information as well as connections to healthcare professionals (i.e., virtual doctor visits).
- Health recommendation HL Policy 11, Strategy 11.3: Expand access to broadband (for virtual workplaces, which expand opportunity)
- Resiliency Recommendation 2 Resiliency Policy 5, Strategy 5.1: Recruit jobs and increase access to broadband to reduce the rate of out-commuting.
- Utilities and Public Service Action Item 4: Explore grant funds and partnerships to expand broadband internet coverage.
Budgetary Impact: No budgetary impact at this time.
Recommendation/Motion: Receive a presentation on Digital Inclusion Plan, broadband grants, and digital Inclusion grants.