Monroe County commissioners approve letters of support for three BEAD applicants, vote 3-0

Monroe County commissioners voted 3-0 to authorize a commissioner to sign letters of support for three internet service providers applying for state BEAD (Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment) funding to serve unserved parts of the county.

The motion to allow one commissioner to sign letters of support for the three entities passed by voice vote after a motion and second; the meeting record shows the motion carried "3-0." The staff discussion said letters of support are worth 5% of a provider's bid package and can aid consideration for award by the state.

County presenters said the BEAD challenge process had identified both unserved and underserved areas. Providers submitting proposals include Mainstream Fiber, Comcast and AT&T. The county is focused on western and southwestern areas, with Indian Creek Township specifically named, as well as portions near the lake and the county's eastern side. Staff said provider timelines vary, with many estimating 18 months to two years to complete construction on awarded areas, while the state's BEAD program may roll out construction in phases over three to four years.

Commissioner (unnamed) made the motion to allow the signing of support letters; a second was recorded, and commissioners voted "Aye." "Aye. Motion carries, 3 0," the record shows. County staff also noted the program is funded with federal dollars passed to the state; staff quoted a federal-to-state total of $868,000,000 that the state will distribute across projects.

The action does not itself award funds or commit county money; it authorizes a commissioner to sign letters that private providers include in state grant responses. County staff said they had met with the three providers to review maps and proposals prior to the vote.