Title
Consider the report outlined below, in response to Board Referral No. 2021.08 to explore potential of creating a Monterey County Broadband Joint Powers Authority (JPA) to facilitate regional governance, strategy, collaboration and partnerships on expanding broadband access and closing the digital divide throughout Monterey County.
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the Board of Supervisors:
a. Receive the report outlined below in response to Board Referral No. 2021.08.
b. Provide directions on the next steps regarding this referral based on ITD's findings and recommendations:
1) ITD will form a community broadband Task Force group with an initial memorandum of understanding (MOU) to develop a shared vision on regional broadband effort, appropriate governance structure and a broadband strategic plan.
2) The Task Force group will include ITD, community partners such as CCBC and MBEP, interested cities, agencies, and school districts.
3) The Task Force will:
a. Collaborate on broadband needs and identify regional coverage gaps.
b. Create a Monterey County strategic broadband plan.
c. Present at City Select Committee and Tri-County Administers' meeting to gather interest from other cities and agencies.
d. Agree and implement the appropriate type of governance body.
4) Provide further direction, as appropriate.
SUMMARY:
Monterey County IT department received Board referral #2021.08 on May 18, 2021 to explore the potential of creating a Monterey County Broadband Joint Powers Authority to facilitate regional governance, strategy, collaboration, and partnerships on expanding broadband access and closing the digital divide throughout Monterey County.
On June 8, 2021, Board approved considerations for additional community broadband governance structures which include 1) a broadband board, 2) a JPA to contract and jointly exercise common powers, or 3) a JPA in the form of a separate legal entity.
ITD discussed with regional partners on community broadba...
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