On Target
Complete the Programmatic EIR and expand the permitting “tool kit” to facilitate broadband.
Board of Supervisors 2023

Description

In the County's efforts to expand rural broadband, we hear from internet service providers (ISP) that environmental permitting is a substantial challenge to complete projects in a timely and cost-efficient manner. As a result, the Broadband Work Group has led the effort to initiate a countywide environmental impact report (EIR) and a "tool kit" to help remove barriers to completing local "last-mile" projects. 

In 2021, the County hired Ascent Environmental, Inc. to complete the Draft Programmatic EIR. The EIR is expected to take approximately 8-10 months to complete and will involve multiple opportunities for public engagement. 

Progress Update

Highlights from Q2 (April through June 2023) include:

  • Held an initial meeting to gather information for the permitting toolkit.

Next Steps

Plans for Q3 (July through September 2023) include:

  • Finish permitting toolkit

Objectives

On Target
Broadband
Board of Supervisors 2023