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Kansas communities that are ready for future grant opportunities and a competitive bid process for broadband services will be in line for a new designation from the Kansas Office of Broadband Development.
Governor Laura Kelly (D) has announced the launch of the Kansas Broadband Ready Communities certification program and said the new designation is designed to kickstart improvements that will strengthen communities across the state.
“A Broadband Ready Community designation signifies that a local government has taken steps toward economic growth, educational opportunities, and improved quality of life for its residents,” Kelly said, according to Kansas Office of Broadband Development, which announced the new certification program on Jan. 4.
Minimum requirements to achieve the Kansas Broadband Ready Communities designation include measures like designating a single point of contact and committing to a 30-day review process. Steps to prohibit discrimination in permitting procedures, the utilization or transition to electronic filing systems, and ensuring that filing fee amounts do not exceed state laws are also included as minimum requirements in the program, the state’s broadband office stated.
“By adopting specific local ordinances ahead of time, communities can ensure more successful and sustainable broadband deployment projects,” the agency’s Jan. 4 announcement said.
Community leaders in Kansas will have an opportunity to learn more about the Kansas Broadband Ready Communities certification program in an upcoming webinar (register here), scheduled for 11 a.m. on Thursday, Feb. 8.
“We encourage all Kansas communities to embrace the Kansas Broadband Ready Communities program, which supports innovation, preparedness, and collaboration,” said Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland. “Obtaining this certification is a clear way to showcase that broadband connectivity is a top priority and that communities are ready to take full advantage of the many digital opportunities available.”
More information is available on the program here, at KOBD’s website.
