IN THE COUNTY LEGISLATURE OF JACKSON COUNTY, MISSOURI
Title
A RESOLUTION authorizing the Jackson County Executive to execute a Professional Services Agreement with KC Digital Drive of Kansas City, MO, for Jackson County Broadband and Digital Equity Plan Phase 1 services, at a cost to the County not to exceed $100,000.00.
Intro
RESOLUTION NO. 22248, April 20, 2026
INTRODUCED BY Jeanie Lauer, County Legislator
Body
WHEREAS, Jackson County has an opportunity to develop a coordinated strategy for expanding broadband access and strengthening digital opportunity across the County; and,
WHEREAS, a countywide Broadband and Digital Equity Action Plan will help assist with the following: assess broadband infrastructure availability and performance across Jackson County; identify service gaps and barriers to adoption and participation; engage municipalities, ISPs, community organizations, anchor institutions, and residents; identify potential projects and funding pathways to expand access and strengthen digital inclusion; and provide a practical five-year roadmap for implementation; and,
WHEREAS, KC Digital Drive proposes completing the work in two phases. Phase 1 - Analysis, Engagement, and Investment Strategy, with an estimated timeline of approximately five (5) months, to include project management and stakeholder engagement, broadband infrastructure mapping and technical assessment, digital equity and community needs analysis, market analysis and ISP engagement, funding strategy and financial modeling; and,
WHEREAS, additional Phase 1 deliverables include a preliminary broadband and digital equity investment pipeline identifying potential infrastructure and program initiatives, preliminary cost ranges, and potential funding/partnership opportunities; and,
WHEREAS, Phase 2 - Action Plan Development and Policy Recommendations would build on Phase 1 findings to develop policy and governance recommendations; create a comprehensive five-year Broadband...
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