In a unanimous decision on December 16, the Chatham County Board of Commissioners solidified its commitment to ensuring equitable technology access with the adoption of the Digital Inclusion Plan. As reported by Chatham County's news release, this plan paves the way for increased broadband access, affordability of computing devices, and the promotion of digital literacy among all residents of the county.
Chatham County Manager, Dan Lamontagne, reflected on the import of such a program, noting, "The Digital Inclusion Plan will provide a critical framework for closing the digital divide across Chatham County, thereby improving connectivity for our residents, businesses, and schools." The plan stems from the recognition that participating in the digital world is not simply a convenience, but a necessity for the sustainment and success of every citizen, as per the Chatham County announcement.
Before the commissioners gave it their stamp of approval, a draft of the plan underwent a public review period from July to September on the Chatham Community Nexus platform, as per reports from the Chatham County announcement. This process was designed to capture the voice of the community, making sure that the strategy addresses the needs of the populace with precision. The feedback, which significantly shaped the final document, highlighted desires for heightened cybersecurity, broader internet broadband coverage, and more resources for digital literacy.
What began as a project by Innovate Chatham in 2021 has since burgeoned into a collaborative venture involving local governments, schools, and various organizations throughout the county. This broad coalition reflects not just the complexity of digital inclusion, but also the cooperativity essential in addressing such a multifaceted issue. Undoubtedly, the efforts put forth here signal an awareness that equality in access to the digital realm is essential for the progress of the community as a whole.
