Resolution Authorizing Sauk County Administration to execute an endorsement letter in support of Birghtspeed's Broadband Equity Access Deployment (BEAD) grant funding application to the Wisconsin Public Service Commission (PSC

Sauk County recognizes that broadband connectivity and reliability is critical infrastructure for the entire county to participate in the full benefits of our society and economy, including access to telemedicine, education and economic opportunities. The federal Broadband Equity, Access and Deployment (BEAD) grant program was established to provide significant funding to expand high-speed, reliable and affordable internet access to all Americans regardless of their geographic location. The availability of the Wisconsin PSC’s $1,055,823,573.71 BEAD funding is crucial for supporting infrastructure projects that will enhance connectivity for households and businesses in Sauk County and beyond.

In 2023-2024, the Economic Development Committee, working collaboratively with the PSC conducted a countywide survey of broadband needs and issues and found 963 unserved and underserved households and businesses in Sauk County. The Economic Development Committee is committed to bridging this digital divide by endorsing Internet Service Providers (ISPs) who have a proven record of accomplishment in Sauk County and have provided documentation of their ability and desire to build infrastructure to connect all within the county.