pages: CityCouncil/2021-10-05.pdf, 6
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CityCouncil | 2021-10-05 | 6 | spot program that would be launched by the Library and could have quick implementation; stated fiber network allows the City to build its own local system that would support greater WiFi access for people across the community; the City has near- term options and a longer-term plan to really enhance local capabilities and take away unstable hot spot network issues that could arise in different parts of the community. The Information Technology Director stated the hot spot issue was discussed in the meeting with Verizon; locations in the City without cellular signal require use of WiFi; Verizon will send an engineer to certain areas to boost the signal. Councilmember Herrera Spencer stated there was a discussion about the use of street lights to support cellular at a League of California Cities conference, she agrees weak cellular service is across the City; the plan includes more than she is ready to support; the City has fallen short in providing WiFi; she is concerned it has been four years since her referral; the Library hot spots and connecting cellular service should be the priority; questioned how much ARPA funding is needed to fill WiFi gaps across the City; stated the entire Smart City Plan should not be funded by ARPA; discussed use of ARPA funds; stated that she is interested in hearing about other possible funding sources for the Smart City Plan. Councilmember Daysog stated ARPA funds will allow the City to lay infrastructure to close the digital divide, improve transit flow and provide free internet through ISPs; cost estimates should be adhered to; the business model of free internet needs to be understood; discussed Alameda's experience providing internet and cable; stated that he is fine with the priorities; this is rare funding opportunity; the City should move forward. Councilmember Knox White stated that he supports the concept in general; more discussion is needed; he is not aware of free citywide public WiFi programs that are working exceedingly well; he would like more information; a lot of Department of Transportation program grants overpromised and under delivered; he is a little concerned about jumping to a decision too quickly because the City has money; transportation operation benefits beyond staff savings are being over promised; discussed traffic; stated time has not been saved from either of the two smart corridor programs; expressed concern about outcomes not being met; stated that he would like to have further discussion of and information about San Leandro's program; the State and federal governments are providing a lot of cyber infrastructure funding, which he would rather use to fund the Smart City program; he is not 100% clear on the strategy and would like more information, especially about programs in other cities; the City's internet experience is a good example of why small cities should not get into technology solutions early on since things change so quickly; broadband is a future the City needs to prepare for and the ring is one of the first steps; discussed prior meetings with the School District; expressed concern about relying on private providers. Mayor Ezzy Ashcraft stated Council is providing direction; inquired whether Councilmember Knox White feels the transportation component should be referred back Regular Meeting Alameda City Council October 5, 2021 5 | CityCouncil/2021-10-05.pdf |