pages: CityCouncil/2021-10-05.pdf, 5
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CityCouncil | 2021-10-05 | 5 | projects coming separately after the broadband backbone ring is done. The Information Technology Director responded in the affirmative; stated the broadband backbone is the key to other top 10 priorities and recommendations move forward. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft discussed short, mid-term and long-term timeframes; stated that she would like to move up internet availability being enhanced in public places to decrease the digital divide; cyber security should also be at the top of the list; discussed ransomware attacks; inquired whether and how cyber security could be accelerated. The Information Technology Director responded priorities are still being planned; stated staff is meeting with existing telecommunication carriers: Verizon and Comcast; the companies are aware of the Smart City Initiatives; in order to get more equitable internet, Verizon is sending an engineer to areas with weak cellular service to boost signals, which could be a good stop gap; Comcast has offered to work with the City to implement its lift zone program and increase gig speed for free for three years in equity priority community locations; cyber security features would be included in the fiber core buildout. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft noted that she, Vice Mayor Vella and the Information Technology Director met with Comcast's Government Relations representative about equity issues. Mr. Huynh stated cyber security has to be included as part of network buildout; phases will be identified. Discussed internet service and cyber security; expressed concern over increasing staff; stated funds would be better spent on roads: Jay Garfinkle, Alameda. Vice Mayor Vella stated the plan has options to address equity issues, which are a Council priority; phasing of cyber security makes sense; discussed the dig once policy; stated the issue has been discussed for several years; $230,000 is for one location; costs add up quickly to have equitable access at other sites. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft discussed using American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds; inquired when the Council will make final decisions about ARPA funds, to which the Assistant City Manager responded the first meeting in December. Councilmember Herrera Spencer stated that she brought a referral in 2017 to have free public WiFi throughout the City; the School District successfully created hot spots; people have been left behind during the pandemic; her priority is closing the digital divide as quickly as possible; inquired how quickly it can be done and how much money is needed. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft requested staff address the limitations of hot spots. The Assistant City Manager responded the ARPA funding includes $50,000 for a hot Regular Meeting Alameda City Council October 5, 2021 4 | CityCouncil/2021-10-05.pdf |