6.3 EDSR 10-20-2014 - Laserfiche WebLink

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Elk Request for Action River To Item Number Economic Development Authority 6.3 Agenda Section Meeting Date Prepared by General Business October 20, 2014 Colleen Eddy, Economic Development Specialist Item Description Reviewed by Consider support for County Broadband Initiative Jeremy Barnhart, Deputy Director CODD Reviewed by Action Requested Approve,by resolution, support for a county broadband initiative. Background/Discussion Sherburne County conducted a county wide Broadband Survey this past summer. The results showed that there is a desire to expand the broadband infrastructure in most parts of the County. The County along with the cities of Becker,Big Lake and Zimmerman have indicated a desire to apply for a Blandin Community Broadband program designation. By enrolling in this program,it enables cities to be recipients of grant money that private broadband companies could utilize to expand broadband to our area. The availability of broadband is a critical component to a businesses' economic vitality, especially in this age of global communication driving business interaction and sales. Increasing the opportunities to have access to funding for broadband development will enable private sector businesses to respond to the increasing demands for this type of infrastructure. A well connected Sherburne County helps Elk River businesses in global communication;data transmission speed/ proximity is a frequent request in site selection. Investing in broadband is an investment in the people of Sherburne County and our local communities. The potential jobs,increased tax base that will be created as a result of this investment impacts our local economy, our environment and our quality of life. Financial Impact N/A Attachments • Resolution POWERED RY Template Updated 4/14 NATURE