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Salem board authorizes Broadband Ready Communities application to pursue future funding
Summary
Supervisors voted to apply for the Broadband Ready Communities designation, which requires public notices, permitting/easement readiness and formal resolutions; board members said Salem was identified among county municipalities lacking broadband and that ARPA funds at the state level exist to be allocated nationally.
The Salem Township Board of Supervisors unanimously authorized submission of a "Broadband Ready Communities" application at its Aug. 21 meeting.
Kerry Jobe moved the resolution, seconded by Ken Trumbetta. Resident Lisa Segina asked what the designation provides; Bob Zundel said it marks the township as prepared to accept broadband funding and organizes steps the township must take now to be ready when state or federal funds are available. Jobe said Salem is among municipalities in Westmoreland County identified as needing broadband; requirements include public meeting notices, managing permitting for easements and adopting enabling resolutions. The board said details about the program will be posted on the township website.
Board members noted that approximately $1.6 billion was awarded to the state from federal funds under the American Rescue Plan Act in prior years for broadband initiatives; the resolution is an effort to put Salem in a position to seek a share of future allocations. The board directed administration and planning to post program information and begin application work.
