Title
Adopt a Resolution to approve and authorize the Chairperson to execute the Golden State Connect Authority Joint Exercise of Powers Agreement.
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the Board of Supervisors:
Adopt a Resolution to approve and authorize the Chairperson to execute the Golden State Connect Authority Joint Exercise of Powers Agreement.
SUMMARY:
Monterey County has a serious digital divide problem and a recent photo of two little girls outside a fast-food restaurant in East Salinas has brought national attention to this crisis. It is critical that Monterey County expresses support for Rural County Representative of California (RCRC)'s broadband initiative by approving and authorizing the execution of the Golden State Connect Authority Joint Exercise of Powers Agreement. The objective is to increase access to reliable, affordable high-speed broadband for all rural Californians. There is no financial impact associated with joining the JPA, and no obligation for individual member counties to provide funds to the Authority, absent a separate agreement to participate in one (or more) of the specific programs.
DISCUSSION:
On August 18, 2021, the Board of Directors of Rural County Representatives of California (RCRC) voted unanimously to approve the formation of a Joint Powers Authority (JPA), Golden State Connect Authority, for the purpose of expanding broadband access and quality in rural counties. Following approval by the RCRC Board, the next step in establishment of this entity is to provide the Golden State Connect Authority JPA to each RCRC Member County for review and approval by the Member County Boards of Supervisors.
Activities within Golden State Connect Authority will focus exclusively on broadband. All RCRC member counties are welcome and encouraged to join. There is no financial impact associated with joining the JPA, and no obligation for individual member counties to provide funds to the Authority, absent a separate agreement...
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