DEPARTMENT: Information and Technology Services Department
DEPARTMENT HEAD: Craig Hopkins, Chief Information Officer
COUNCIL DISTRICTS IMPACTED: Citywide
SUBJECT: Creating Digital Inclusion and Municipal Broadband
SUMMARY:
At this briefing, the Innovation and Technology Committee will be provided with information regarding digital inclusion, the positive impact to the residents of San Antonio, and the efforts made by the City to promote digital inclusion. Additionally, information will be provided regarding municipal broadband and the provision of broadband internet access services.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION:
Digital inclusion activities in San Antonio afford City residents the opportunity to be successful and enhance their quality of life. Through digital inclusion, individuals and communities in the City have access to and use of information and technology to learn, seek employment opportunities, and connect with family and friends. An increasing amount of our day-to-day activities are conducted online as the digital economy continues to grow. As a City, we recognize the importance of digital inclusion and providing residents, including the most disadvantaged, online access.
ISSUE:
In San Antonio, 1 in 4 households don’t have access to the internet. The disparity is directly correlated with socioeconomic status, making online access even more important in low income communities. At this briefing, information will be provided to the Innovation and Technology Committee on the opportunities available to local governments in Texas to promote digital inclusion and broadband access for underserved residents.
ALTERNATIVES:
This item is for briefing purposes only
FISCAL IMPACT:
This item is for briefing purposes only
RECOMMENDATION:
This item is for briefing purposes only