November 18, 2021 – Flagler County moves forward with its broadband initiative to bring internet access to underserved areas – largely in the western reaches of the county – with the unanimous vote of the Board of County Commissioners to approve to negotiate a contract with a subsidiary of Charter Communications to build connections over 187 “route miles” in three phases. The negotiated contract will come back before the board at a later date.
The total cost, which is largely funded through grants and financial backing by Charter Communications, is $7.43 million. Flagler County is committed to funding $1 million of the project costs through American Rescue Plan funds. While the first phase is fully funded, there is currently a funding gap of $1.8 million for phases 2 and 3.
“We are focused on moving forward with Phase 1,” said Deputy County Administrator Jorge Salinas during his November 15 presentation to the Board. “Flagler County will continue to seek grant opportunities to close the $1.8 million funding gap for Phase 2 and Phase 3.”
Additionally, the county will work with Charter Communications to develop a schedule for the Phase 1 buildout.
“This (broadband) task force has done an amazing job,” said now Commission Chairman Joe Mullins during the meeting. “Most counties across the country – and I know because I’m on national committees – are talking about addressing broadband, and we’ve done it.”
Chris Bailey, Director State Government Affairs for Charter Communications, answered questions posed by the board. The company goal, he said, is for there to be ubiquitous broadband.
The likely timeline for completion of the Phase 1 project is the end of 2023, barring circumstances outside of company control like permitting delays.
The public-private partnership will allow Bailey to work with the county for grant funding for Phase 2 and Phase 3 through the United States Department of Agriculture’s “Reconnect Program.”
Media Release: Flagler County. Julie Murphy, MPIO
Image: FlaglerTax.com
