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Request to Submit a T-Mobile Grant to Refresh the Town’s Free Public Wi-Fi
PURPOSE: The purpose of this agenda item is to request that the Town Council authorize the submittal of a T-Mobile grant application. If awarded, the funds will be used to refresh various critical public Wi-Fi infrastructure allowing for Wi-Fi 6/6E connectivity which offers greater bandwidth, higher speeds, and supports a greater number of Wi-Fi users.
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Department
DEPARTMENT: Information Technology
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Contact
CONTACT INFORMATION: Andy Vogel, IT Director - (919) 918-7305
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Council Direction
COUNCIL DIRECTION:
___ Race/Equity ____ Climate _X_ Comprehensive Plan ____Other
Council Direction Statement
Allows Town to continue to serve residents at current levels with relevant and modern technology. Allows residents and visitors access to internet resources at no charge in many downtown public locations and all Town buildings.
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Information
INFORMATION: The Town would apply for a T-Mobile grant for $50,000 to refresh Wi-Fi infrastructure used by the Town’s free public Wi-Fi - SSID: TOCWIRELESS.NET. T-Mobile is “investing $25M in 500 rural towns over 5 years to jumpstart projects and build stronger communities”. T-Mobile is offering $50K grants for shovel ready projects. Further details are available here (the web site): <https://www.t-mobile.com/brand/hometown-grants> .
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Fiscal and Staff Impact
FISCAL IMPACT: No fiscal impact.
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Recommendation
RECOMMENDATION: The Town Manager recommends that the Town Council authorize the submittal of the T-Mobile grant application and the acceptance of the grant, if awarded.
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