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Sparta approves resolution to pursue ‘Broadband Ready’ designation and ARPA grant
Summary
Council authorized a resolution to pursue a Broadband Ready Community designation and apply quickly for a noncompetitive ARPA grant (staff cited roughly $100,000 potential) to fund senior-center computers, library equipment, lobby kiosks and website/app improvements.
The Sparta City Council approved resolution 24597 authorizing the city to pursue a Broadband Ready Community designation and quickly apply for a noncompetitive ARPA grant to expand digital access and community technology resources.
Tanya told council an opportunity on a second round of ARPA funding could provide a roughly $100,000 non-matching grant to support community broadband-related uses. She said potential projects include computers for the senior citizen center, library printers for public use, a lobby information kiosk and website or mobile-app development. "If we don't apply for this we're leaving right at $100,000 on the table," Tanya said.
Councilors voted on roll call and approved the resolution so staff could submit an application within program deadlines.
Why it matters: The grant would fund public-facing digital resources and improvements that city staff said would help residents access services and information.
What’s next: City staff will proceed with the application for the Broadband Ready Community designation and the ARPA grant according to the program’s timetable.
