The Bourbon County Commission meeting held on November 14, 2024, focused on several key agenda items, primarily centered around community development and broadband expansion initiatives.
The meeting commenced with a discussion on the importance of expanding broadband access to unserved and underserved areas in Kentucky. A representative from KOBD emphasized the need for partnerships in this effort, specifically requesting letters of support from local stakeholders to strengthen their application for funding. The representative clarified that supporting their application would not preclude stakeholders from backing other providers, highlighting a collaborative approach to improving broadband services.
The commission was informed that KOBD, along with its consultants and staff, would evaluate each application using a scoring system that had been established and approved by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA). The representative noted that the grant portal for applications would close on December 5, and they aimed to collect all letters of support by the end of November to include them in their submission.
During the meeting, a question was raised regarding the target number of residences in Bergen County that would benefit from this broadband expansion initiative. The representative was prepared to provide further details on this aspect, indicating a proactive approach to addressing community needs.
In conclusion, the Bourbon County Commission meeting underscored the ongoing efforts to enhance broadband access in the region, with a clear call for community involvement through letters of support. The commission plans to follow up on this initiative as the application deadline approaches, ensuring that local voices are included in the push for improved connectivity.