Keith County approves brief letter urging BEAD broadband funding support

Commissioners voted to approve a short letter drafted for federal and state lawmakers outlining Keith County's priorities for BEAD (Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment) funding. County staff said they consolidated several longer draft letters into a single, concise statement they would forward to appropriate members of Congress and the state legislature.

Board members emphasized brevity and clarity. County Administrator Joan (first name used in the meeting) said she shortened a two‑page draft several colleagues had circulated to keep the message direct; she asked commissioners to approve the letter so she and staff could transmit it to the selected legislators. A motion to approve the letter passed on roll call.

Why it matters: BEAD is a federal broadband program that will distribute substantial grant funds for broadband infrastructure; counties routinely send letters to emphasize local needs and priorities. The board said staff would send the approved letter to the county's congressional delegation and state senators deemed appropriate.

Next steps: County staff will transmit the letter, copy relevant county partners, and track BEAD application guidance. Commissioners flagged concern about federal requirements and possible strings attached to some funding approaches; staff said they would monitor terms and follow up with any clarifying language if needed.