Beyond Infrastructure: Why Broadband Access is Foundational to FOI and Local Power

Abstract

Access to civic information is dependent on physical infrastructure, such as broadband internet connection. Without connectivity, the public cannot effectively watch virtual city council meetings, submit records requests to online portals, engage with government data and video files, and take advantage of the growing digitization of information through artificial intelligence. Yet, industry lobbying has stifled efforts for municipalities to develop broadband, hindering the public's right to know.

Accessibility Summary:

In accordance with Title II regulations this content meets all points of exemption as Archived web content and/or Preexisting conventional electronic documents.