Board approves five-year Internet agreement with Gibson County Electric under E‑Rate

The Benton County Board of Education voted to approve a five-year Internet service agreement with Gibson County Electric at its March 5 meeting after staff said the vendor's bid would reduce monthly internet costs under the federal E‑Rate program.

Staff explained the district currently pays about $3,600 per month for Internet service. Under E‑Rate (which staff said pays approximately 85 percent of eligible costs), Gibson County Electric's proposal would cut the district's monthly share to about $1,800–$2,000, using existing fiber infrastructure where available.

"E Rate pays 85% of this...so we're not paying that," a staff member said while explaining vendor comparisons and the projected savings.

The board discussed contract length and procurement requirements. Staff confirmed the contract is five years and, because it exceeds a one-year term, county commission approval will also be required before the vendor can begin service. The staff recommendation was to approve the agreement pending the commission's action.

A motion to approve the Internet service agreement received a second from Mister Dan Morris. Roll call produced 10 yes votes and one pass; the chair announced the agreement had been approved ("With 10 yes, the Internet service agreement with Gibson County Electric has been approved").

Board members and staff noted the switchover would occur July 1 and that some transition issues are possible with a change of provider, but staff said they had checked with neighboring districts that use the vendor and had not identified major problems.

The board recorded the action; the contract will proceed to the county commission for final approval as required for multi-year contracts.