Is Montgomery County Cutting Corners When Addressing the Digital Divide?

Montgomery County League of Women Voters Trending Topic Webinar 

Public infrastructure is more than roads and bridges: People need to connect digitally to access educational, economic, health, political, and other opportunities. But approximately 42 million Americans do not have reliable high-speed internet. Last year, LWVUS adopted a position supporting access to high-speed internet for all through public facilities and government policy.

Montgomery County responded by amending zoning laws that determine where cell phone towers and antennas are placed. However, it relied on outdated guidance, information, and standards set by the Federal Communications Commission. Montgomery County’s People’s Counsel once acted as a public advocate for transparency into the County’s efforts to address utilities concerns, but attempts to revive the Counsel failed.

LWVMC wants to know what questions local leaders are asking as they address the digital divide. Are they considering health and environmental equity concerns? Do local residents have meaningful ways to voice their opinions?

This month’s Trending Topic on Monday, May 22, from 7-8:30 p.m. will feature panelists Theodora Scarato, Executive Director of Environmental Health Trust; Mitsuko Herrera, Program Director for Montgomery Connects in the Montgomery County Office of Broadband Programs; and Sabine Neschke, a Policy Analyst on business and technology issues for the Bipartisan Policy Center. The free webinar will include an audience Q&A. Use the following link to register and come ready to learn! Register Here