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Community Planning Technical Assistance Grant Agreement With State Department of Economic Opportunity for Broadband Feasibility Study and Associated Budget Resolution
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BRIEF OVERVIEW
The Community Planning and Technical Assistance Grant between Hernando County and the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity is a cost reimbursement grant and awarded in the amount of $102,000.00. The grant agreement provides for the cost of a Broadband Feasibility Study for Hernando County. The Board approved the grant application on March 31, 2022, Agenda Item No. 19570. This feasibility study will inform Hernando County’s determination of whether to contract with fiber vendors to install and maintain broadband in Hernando County. Hernando County is interested in the feasibility of contracting for the installation and maintenance of fiber because it has the potential to reduce the current and rising costs of the County’s present infrastructure, increase internet access to underserved areas including communities and emergency services, decrease system vulnerabilities, and increase internet speeds. The study is to be completed by May of 2023.
FINANCIAL IMPACT
The FY 2023 grant amount is $102,000. A budget resolution is attached for Revenue Account No. 0011-31002-3341002; Expenditure Account No. 0011-31002-5303101.
LEGAL NOTE
The Board has the authority to act on this item pursuant to Chapter 125, Florida Statutes.
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RECOMMENDATION
It is recommended that the Board approve and authorize the Chairman’s signature on the attached Community Planning and Technical Assistance Grant Agreement No. P0452 from the State of Florida Department of Economic Opportunity, and the associated budget resolution.