The Berrien County Board of Commissioners has approved a resolution in support of broadband internet access for residents. Following Thursday’s vote, Commissioner Ezra Scott told WSJM News he wanted the resolution so the county could pursue a USDA grant for the roll out of high-speed internet.
“We’re hoping to get about $25 million to put in high-speed fiber broadband e-connectivity for the internet throughout all of Berrien County,” Scott said.
Scott said the program would work as a public-private partnership aimed at rural areas, although he says all of Berrien is considered rural. More action could come next week.
“I’m going to ask the chair, Mac Elliot, to appoint a broadband subcommittee, and that way we can get those people together, get with the staff, and get this grant moved forward.”
Scott says the grant application would be due by the end of May. He and Commissioner Teri Freehling have worked on the issue, talking with residents in need of broadband. Scott tells us this is something the county get out in front of in order to help citizens.
