Cox Communications briefs Reno County on broadband expansion and digital‑equity programs

Megan Bottenberg, director of government affairs for Cox Communications in Kansas, briefed the Reno County Board of Commissioners on the company’s statewide network and local activities.

Bottenberg described Cox as a fiber‑powered network and said the company has expanded to roughly 15 Kansas communities using private capital and has applied for state grant programs, including projects under the federal BEAD program administered in Kansas. She said Cox provides multi‑gig residential speeds where it serves customers, and that the company offers digital‑equity programs including an Internet plan for K–12 households on free or reduced lunch ($10/month), an affordable plan for qualifying households ($30/month), a straight‑to‑consumer plan ($20/month) and device programs through partner PCs for People.

Locally, Bottenberg said Cox has 14 employees in Hutchinson, donated corporate sponsorships to community organizations and contributed through employee giving programs. She thanked county staff for a letter of support for a state broadband application. Bottenberg also reported that Cox is repairing fiber damaged in a recent downtown explosion and that most affected customers are restored; full repairs await clearance from investigators and other crews.

Commissioners asked about program costs and whether Cox charges for Smithsonian affiliation — Bottenberg clarified those were separate matters and that Stratica was not requesting county payment for affiliation fees.

Ending: Cox said it will continue to pursue expansion and grant funding and that county staff and residents may contact the company for information on affordability and device programs.