Albert Lea, MN—Rep. Peggy Bennett, R-Albert lea, is encouraging local officials and other broadband stakeholders to participate in a series of upcoming webinars and conference calls hosted by the Minnesota Office of Broadband Development. The informational sessions will detail changes made to the program during the 2016 legislative session, and will provide key details about the application process.
Over the past two years, Rep. Bennett voted to approve historic investments in broadband funding totaling $45 million in funding over the next two years—more than double the amount approved in 2013-2014. When combined with federal and private funds, Minnesota is expected to see well over $100 million in broadband investment in the next year alone.
"High-speed internet access is critical for our local businesses, schools, students, and more,” said Bennett. “These public-private partnership grants will help close the connection gap for the unserved and underserved areas of our state. These webinars are important, as they will help local officials understand changes that have been made to the program, as well as walk through the application process and answer any questions."
The conference calls will be held:
- Thursday, June 23 11AM-1PM
- Thursday, June 30, 8AM-10AM
- Wednesday, July 13, 9AM-11AM
- Wednesday July 13, 1PM-3PM
Information presented will be the same across all four meetings. Interested parties must register to participate by sending contact information including name, organization/community, address, email, and phone number to David.J.Thaos@state.mn.us or by calling 651-259-7442. Registration is required to obtain meeting access information.
Those interested can also contact Rep. Bennett's office for assistance with registration by calling 651-296-8216 or emailing rep.peggy.bennett@house.mn.
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