There is still plenty of time to get connected by filling out a form about improving internet service in Milam County.
The county is currently collecting data on internet speeds and uses in the county that Connected Nation Texas will turn into information to address the broad band needs of the county,
“Our focus is closing the digital divide which is an ever moving target. It’s not falling behind while closing the gaps,” said Jennifer Harris, the state program director of Connected Nation Texas.
To do that Connected Nation Texas has partnered with Milam County to both expand internet access and increase the speed.
Connect Nation Texas surveys will provide information showing the physical need for connectivity, where speeds need to be increased and who needs training to use the internet.
“Using the internet will improve their lives,” Harris said.
“Our mission is to improve lives by providing innovative solutions that expand the access, adoption and use of high speed internet and its related technologies to all people. Everyone belongs to a connected nation,” said Jon Hubach, who conducted a power-point meeting with interested Milam County residents earlier this month and is formerly of Connected Nation.
“Through the generous support of the Texas Rural Funders, Connected Nation Texas is excited to bring the Connected program to Milam County and empower local, collaborative and data-driven technology planning to inform intelligent, digital development by working with a local broadband committee. We are grateful for the efforts of Milam’s local champions that continue to assist us in collecting crucial data from area residents, businesses, community organizations, and internet service providers to identify opportunities and challenges for expanding access to broadband, ultimately developing a county-specific Technology Action Plan that addresses each area’s unique needs,” said Stu Johnson, community technology adviser at Connected Nation Texas.
County Judge Steve Young initiated the contact with the group.
“We need a big upgrade in the county. We have 11 different providers in the county, but we do not have widespread coverage. In fact, Connected Nation says we have 4,300 households without internet. Of the seven counties in our CTCOG, we are last. So we are going to get something done. We are doing the survey and making good progress and afterwards Connected Nation will comprise a plan of action and we will go after grant money to get the plan done,” Young said.
As of Dec. 15, 657 individuals have turned in the surveys Young spoke of.
The goal is to get at least 1,000 people in the county to fill them out and turn them in. There is a soft deadline of Jan. 15, but surveys will continue until the goal of 1,000 is reached. That is the number needed to get enough information on the needs of the county, according to Connect Nation Texas.
Businesses can also fill out the surveys. The goal for completion is 66 and right now the number is at 51. Public safety agencies and health-care providers should also turn in surveys which can be found at https://www.myconnectedcommunity.org/ milam-county.
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