The ConnectME Authority will be conducting a series of community forums to receive public comment regarding broadband issues in Maine as part of the creation of a triennial strategic plan. Citizens, business owners, municipal representatives and others are encouraged to participate. Input gained at these forums will be incorporated in the draft of the plan to be available for review in early November. Four (4) forums will be held:
· Wed., 9/16, from 5:00PM to 7:00PM in Abromson Hall at the University of Southern Maine (USM) in Portland
· Mon., 9/21, from 5:00PM to 7:00PM at the Wells Conference Center at the University of Maine at Orono (UMO)
· Wed., 9/23, from 2:00PM to 4:00PM, and 5:00PM to 7:00PM at the Campus Center of the University of Maine at Presque Isle (UMPI)
· Wed., 9/30, from 5:00PM to 7:00PM in the Jewett Hall Auditorium of the University of Maine at Augusta (UMA)
The ConnectME Authority has engaged the services of Planning Decisions, Inc. to assist with the forums and the analysis of the information gathered. Planning Decisions, Inc. is acquainted with the topic and is experienced in both conducting public forums and analysis of information obtained through various means of public input.
Attendees will participate in a facilitated group discussion during which questions will be posed about individual and/or community desires and expectations regarding broadband availability, quality, and adoption in Maine, including goals or priorities which attendees feel are important.
For those unable to attend a forum, the ConnectME Authority website (http://www.maine.gov/connectme) will allow interested parties to submit comments in a manner consistent with forum format.
After release of a draft triennial strategic plan in November, a public hearing to receive comments on the draft plan will be conducted on December 4, 2015. This more formal event will allow for further public comment on the draft released in November. In February 2016, the Board will vote on a final triennial strategic plan for broadband in Maine, with publication and promotion of it to immediately follow.
For more information on the forums and the strategic planning process, contact:
David Maxwell…………..david.w.maxwell@maine.gov or 207-624-9793;
Phil Lindley………………phil.lindley@maine.gov or 207-624-9970; or
Lisa Leahy……………….lisa.leahy@maine.gov or 207-592-0668.
The ConnectME Authority Board and staff appreciate you sharing this information with those who might be interested.