The MN Broadband Task Force met online today. GEO Partners presented on their mapping services. MidCo introduced their services, especially on their fixed wireless services. Both were interesting and you can view them below.

The Task Force Subgroups also gave updates:

Adoption gave an update on what has happened with past recommendations from the Task Force. Here are recommendations

• Adoption efforts have not been funded by legislature
• Reimbursement for low income access to broadband has been funded intermittently
• State partnership with computer refurbishers has not happened.

They are working on October meeting – to hear from past recipients of State Broadband funds. Also looking at  way to fund adoption efforts with solutions such as USF or local property taxes.

Next Subgroup

They have been looking at staffing. Sounds like if the State funding comes from telehealth, that the Office of Broadband Development will need to administer those funds with no extra help. (Distance Learning funding would go to MN Dep of Ed.) There are currently two open positions.

Next Subgroup

Looking at broadband speed goals. We probably won’t meet 2022 goals – it would be nice to know how far we got. (Where did we start?)

They are looking at the upload speed. Upload speed is what is hampering productivity during the COVID19 pandemic.

Looking at importance of mapping and education.

RDOF – funding process is more arduous than MN Broadband grant. Need to keep up with it and maybe have a shared plan.

Want to look at low flying satellite. Looking at MICE and tour of 511 Building.