On Tuesday, Dec. 3, the Charles County Board of Commissioners received an update on the development of the county’s broadband strategic plan. Consultants from CTC Technology and Energy briefed Commissioners on the status of their work, including efforts to identify and understand gaps in broadband service; recommend technical approaches to provide broadband service and quantifying the costs; and develop strategies to maximize the use of federal and state funding opportunities.
Based on the research that has been conducted, a substantial portion of the county’s rural areas do not have access to broadband, and 5G wireless will not address this problem. The county is eligible to apply for several federal and state grant funds to invest in long-term solutions, and interim recommendations were presented to address the gaps in service.
The County Commissioners also directed staff to draft a letter to SMECO’s Board of Directors reiterating the importance of this effort in light of the board’s new leadership.
Commissioners also toured the African American Heritage House. The historic site serves as a museum and educational center in the county.
It is managed by the African American Heritage Society of Charles County, Inc., which is dedicated to fostering public awareness and understanding of the African American way of life, and to highlight the contributions of African Americans to the growth and development of Southern Maryland and the nation.
Approval Items:
Commissioners approved the following items:
- A budget transfer request of $4,050 to reimburse the Charles County Volunteer Rescue’s Water, Sewer, and Maintenance Fees that are included in their quarterly bills.
- A budget amendment increase of $133,000 to add three full-time positions and eliminate a part-time position in the Commissioners’ Office.