Chatham County officials approve funding for broadband expansion project

In a recent meeting of the Chatham County Board of Commissioners, significant discussions centered around equity in policy-making and the ongoing Broadband Initiative, highlighting the county's commitment to addressing community needs and enhancing digital access.

The meeting opened with a focus on embedding equity into all county policies and strategic plans. Commissioners emphasized the importance of viewing equity as a lens through which all decisions should be made, rather than as a standalone issue. This approach aims to ensure that all community members, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds, are considered in budget allocations and policy developments. The board unanimously approved statements reinforcing this commitment to equity.

Following this discussion, Brenton Hutt provided an update on the Chatham County Broadband Initiative. He reported progress in expanding broadband access, particularly in underserved areas. The county has successfully secured state grants, which have already served approximately 2,500 homes and businesses. Hutt explained the various technologies involved in broadband delivery, including fiber optic and cable, and detailed the mapping of served versus unserved areas within the county.

The commissioners discussed future funding opportunities, including the Completing Access to Broadband (CAB) program, which aims to further enhance broadband deployment in unserved regions. The board is considering a significant investment of up to $2.5 million in matching funds to attract additional state funding, which could potentially serve thousands of additional homes. This investment is seen as a transformative opportunity to improve digital equity in the county.

The meeting concluded with a consensus among commissioners to move forward with the proposed funding for broadband expansion, recognizing the critical role of internet access in modern life and its impact on economic development and community well-being. The board plans to revisit this topic in the coming months to assess progress and explore additional funding avenues.

Overall, the discussions reflect Chatham County's proactive stance on equity and digital access, aiming to create a more inclusive and connected community.