AGENDA INFORMATION SHEET
DEPARTMENT: Technology Services
DCM: Bryan Langley
AGENDA DATE: May 2, 2017
SUBJECT
Title
Receive a report, hold a discussion, and give staff direction regarding the digital divide and impact to city of Denton residents.
Body
BACKGROUND
Digital technology has changed the way people around the world work, learn, access information and communicate. Access to broadband has become essential to make prog-ress in all areas of community development-education and workforce development, health, housing, small-business development and access to financial services.
Furthermore, as the digital economy grows, digital inclusion represents economic inclusion. Yet broadband access and adoption continue to lag behind for certain population segments, including low-income and rural communities. This is referred to as the digital divide-i.e., the gap between people who have access to broadband services and know how to use the internet and those who do not have such access or knowledge. The digital divide leads to further economic, social and political disparities for low-income and underserved populations.
The city of Denton is attempting to bridge the digital divide gap by offering free Wi-Fi and Internet access to all of its residents at all the libraries, public facilities and downtown by the courthouse square. Additionally, Denton Libraries provide over 16 programs related to technology which include; Microsoft Office training, computers with special software, online training and tutorials, laptops and IPads at each library location. The goal is to give all economic groups equal access to the opportunities of the digital age.
STRATEGIC PLAN RELATIONSHIP
The City of Denton’s Strategic Plan is an action-oriented road map that will help the City achieve its vision. The foundation for the plan is the five long-term Key Focus Areas (KFA): Organizational Excellence; Public Infrastructure; Economic Development; Safe, Livable, and Family-Friendly Community; and Sustainability and Environmental Stewardship. While individual items may support multiple KFAs, this specific City Council agenda item contributes most directly to the following KFA and goal:
Related Key Focus Area: Safe, Liveable & Family-Friendly Community
Related Goal: 4.3 Provide quality, diverse, and accessible neighborhood services for the community
EXHIBITS
1. Digital Divide Presentation
Respectfully submitted:
Melissa Kraft
Chief Technology Officer