The Boston City Council meeting on May 1, 2025, focused on the Department of Innovation and Technology (DOIT) and the PEG Access Fund, highlighting the city's commitment to community engagement and digital equity.
The meeting began with a report on the activities of Boston Neighborhood Network (BNN) over the past year. BNN representatives shared that they had conducted 57 truck shoots, covering a variety of events including the Puerto Rican Parade, Boston Caribbean Fashion Week, and the 26th Annual Haitian Independence Gala. They emphasized their commitment to inclusivity in sports coverage, ensuring that both men's and women's athletic events are represented, including cheerleading competitions.
A significant portion of the discussion centered on BNN's collaboration with the Timothy Smith Group Foundation, which focuses on assisting veterans with digital literacy. This initiative aims to help veterans learn essential computer skills, such as using email, to enhance their connectivity with family and community.
BNN also reported impressive engagement metrics, with 2,862 total streams and 1,452 unique IP addresses accessing their content from 31 countries. They are producing an average of 12 shows per week, with a total of 90 shows recorded in Studio A and 40 in Studio B during the third quarter. The representatives noted the challenges of encouraging remote show hosts to return to the studio but expressed optimism about the growth of new memberships.
The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of BNN's role in fostering community connections and supporting local events, particularly those honoring veterans. The council acknowledged the importance of these initiatives in promoting digital equity and community engagement across Boston.