Your guide to NYC's public proceedings.

New York City Council

Committee on Technology

Apr 29, 2025

·

10:00 AM

3 hr 19 min

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Summary

A hearing on New York City's broadband strategy and digital equity initiatives.

Discussions focused on:

  • The lack of a comprehensive long-term plan after shelving the Internet Master Plan
  • The Big Apple Connect program providing free internet to NYCHA residents
  • Debates over infrastructure investment versus leveraging existing networks
  • Proposed legislation to expand access and affordability

Features testimony from the Office of Technology and Innovation (OTI), Department of Citywide Administrative Services (DCAS), and the public.

Meeting chapters

Read summaries and watch videos for short segments that matter to you.

REMARKS

Council Member Jennifer Gutiérrez's opening remarks on NYC's broadband strategy

Council Member Jennifer Gutiérrez, chair of the committee on technology, delivers opening remarks for an oversight hearing on New York City's broadband strategy. She expresses concerns about the lack of …

0:00:52

177 sec

REMARKS

Council Member Holden advocates for Intro 898 to increase broadband transparency

Council Member Robert F. Holden presents his support for Intro 898, a bill aimed at increasing transparency and public access to information about broadband service and cable franchise agreements in …

0:03:51

82 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Introduction and overview of OTI's broadband and digital equity efforts

Brett Sikoff, Executive Director of Broadband and Franchise Administration for OTI, introduces the agency's efforts to bridge the digital divide in NYC. He emphasizes the importance of internet access as …

0:05:55

86 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Big Apple Connect program details and success

Big Apple Connect, launched in the first year of the Adams administration, is highlighted as the nation's largest municipal subsidized broadband program. It provides free in-home broadband and basic cable …

0:07:22

64 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Digital Equity Roadmap and related initiatives

OTI released the New York City Digital Equity Roadmap, a $2.4 million investment designed to enhance free Internet access and provide skills and support for its use. The Roadmap focuses …

0:08:27

118 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

LinkNYC kiosks and public WiFi infrastructure

LinkNYC operates about 2,200 kiosks, including original links and newer Link 5G smart poles, reaching over 18 million subscribers. These kiosks provide free WiFi, nationwide calling, device charging, and quick …

0:10:25

35 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Mobile telecommunications franchises and 5G deployment

OTI administers mobile telecommunications franchises that allow companies to install 4G and 5G equipment on light poles and utility poles. These franchises enable mobile carriers to enhance and densify their …

0:11:02

29 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Information services franchises for fiber optic cable

Information services franchises are held by companies that install and operate fiber optic cable in city streets. These franchises allow companies to offer voice, data, and business-to-business Internet service across …

0:11:32

25 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Discussion of Intro 198 - Reporting on discounted internet program utilization

OTI addresses Chair Gutierrez's bill, Intro 198, which would require reporting on discounted internet service program utilization rates and outreach efforts related to such programs. - OTI currently provides information …

0:11:59

38 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Discussion of Intro 481 - Disseminating information on affordable internet programs

OTI addresses Intro 481, sponsored by Council Member Won, which would require OTI to disseminate information on affordable Internet programs and community-based Internet services to community-based organizations (CBOs). - OTI …

0:12:38

42 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Discussion of Intro 483 - Requiring agencies to provide public wifi access

OTI addresses Council Member Won's bill, Intro 483, which would require OTI to establish a program for city agencies to provide wireless network access for public Internet use. - OTI …

0:13:22

41 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Discussion of Intro 486 - Providing materials on affordable internet to students/families

OTI addresses Intro 486, also sponsored by Council Member Won, which would require OTI to provide written materials about affordable Internet for wide-ranging outreach to students and families. - OTI …

0:14:04

56 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Discussion of Intro 878 - Increasing transparency on cable franchise agreements

OTI addresses Intro 878, sponsored by Councilmember Holden, which would require OTI to post information on their website related to cable franchise agreements. - OTI's website already contains wide-ranging, easily …

0:15:02

19 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Discussion of Intro 1122 - Requiring comprehensive broadband expansion plan

OTI addresses Intro 1122, sponsored by Chair Gutierrez, which would require OTI to publish a plan for universal, affordable, and equitable Internet availability in homes throughout the city every five …

0:15:22

99 sec

AGENCY TESTIMONY

Comparison of current approach with previous Internet Master Plan

OTI addresses the comparison between their current approach and the previous Internet Master Plan, explaining why they changed course and the benefits of their new strategy. - The Internet Master …

0:17:02

72 sec

Q&A

Data on broadband access and adoption in New York City

Council Member Gutiérrez questions OTI officials about current data on broadband access and adoption in NYC. The officials provide some general information but lack specific data on household connectivity rates. …

0:18:15

168 sec

Q&A

Impact of Big Apple Connect program on broadband adoption

Council Member Gutiérrez acknowledges the impact of the Big Apple Connect program but requests information beyond this specific initiative. The OTI official briefly mentions the program's significance in improving connectivity. …

0:21:04

59 sec

Q&A

Status of broadband mapping efforts in New York City

Council Member Gutiérrez inquires about the current status of broadband mapping efforts in NYC. OTI officials provide limited information on existing maps and data sources. - OTI has a public …

0:22:03

130 sec

Q&A

Clarification on the procurement process for Big Apple Connect

Council Member Gutiérrez seeks clarification on the procurement process for the Big Apple Connect program, particularly regarding the RFP process and vendor selection. OTI officials provide details on the actual …

0:24:14

4 min

Q&A

Inquiry into the procurement process for Big Apple Connect program

Council Member Jennifer Gutiérrez questions OTI officials about the procurement process for the Big Apple Connect program. The officials explain that a mini bid process was used within the context …

0:28:30

53 sec

Q&A

Concerns over availability and transparency of Big Apple Connect contracts

Council Member Gutiérrez raises concerns about the lack of transparency regarding Big Apple Connect contracts, which the committee has repeatedly requested but not received. OTI officials seem uncertain about the …

0:29:23

49 sec

Q&A

Explanation of rationale for using existing cable infrastructure in Big Apple Connect

OTI officials explain the decision to use existing cable infrastructure for the Big Apple Connect program, citing the need for immediate connectivity and leveraging existing resources. They discuss the use …

0:30:15

5 min

Q&A

Debate over limited competition among ISPs due to Big Apple Connect approach

Council Member Gutiérrez expresses concerns that the Big Apple Connect program may have limited competition among Internet Service Providers (ISPs), particularly smaller providers who were involved in the previous Internet …

0:35:32

53 sec

Q&A

Challenges faced by smaller ISPs in NYCHA developments and decision-making process

OTI officials explain the challenges faced by smaller Internet Service Providers (ISPs) in NYCHA developments and the rationale behind pivoting away from the Internet Master Plan to Big Apple Connect. …

0:36:25

3 min

Q&A

Current adoption rates and efforts to increase participation in Big Apple Connect

Council Member Gutiérrez inquires about the current adoption rates of Big Apple Connect among NYCHA residents and efforts to increase participation. OTI officials provide information on the program's reach and …

0:39:57

34 sec

Q&A

Reasons for non-adoption of Big Apple Connect by some NYCHA residents

OTI officials discuss the reasons why approximately 20% of eligible NYCHA residents have not adopted Big Apple Connect. They explain the challenges in increasing adoption rates and provide insights into …

0:40:31

106 sec

Q&A

Details of the Big Apple Connect survey and its implementation

Council Member Gutiérrez inquires about the recently launched Big Apple Connect survey. Brett Sikoff from OTI explains that it's a short survey sent via US mail to confirm service receipt, …

0:42:22

115 sec

Q&A

Lack of data on additional services purchased by Big Apple Connect subscribers

Council Member Gutiérrez inquires about data on additional services purchased by Big Apple Connect subscribers. Brett Sikoff from OTI reveals that they don't have this data and didn't request it …

0:44:17

169 sec

Q&A

Cost and funding details of the Big Apple Connect program

Council Member Gutiérrez inquires about the cost and funding of the Big Apple Connect program. Brett Sikoff from OTI confirms that the program is currently funded at approximately $38 million …

0:47:06

102 sec

Q&A

Future expansion plans for the Big Apple Connect program

Council Member Gutiérrez inquires about future expansion plans for the Big Apple Connect program. Brett Sikoff from OTI explains that the current focus is on ensuring all eligible NYCHA residents …

0:48:51

130 sec

Q&A

Broadband requirements and plans for RAD PACT developments

Brett Sikoff from OTI explains the broadband requirements and plans for RAD PACT (Rental Assistance Demonstration Project-Based Action Contract) developments. These developments, while not part of Big Apple Connect, have …

0:51:01

69 sec

Q&A

Discussion on expanding Big Apple Connect and digital equity initiatives

Council Member Gutiérrez inquires about OTI's efforts to expand broadband access beyond existing NYCHA sites. Brett Sikoff from OTI responds by discussing the broader digital equity initiatives, including the digital …

0:52:10

66 sec

Q&A

Current status and plans for Big Apple Connect expansion

Council Member Gutiérrez presses for specific information on plans to expand Big Apple Connect beyond its current scope. Brett Sikoff from OTI provides clarification on the current status and future …

0:53:17

174 sec

Q&A

OTI's role in coordinating broadband access for RAD PACT developments

Council Member Gutiérrez inquires about OTI's involvement in discussions with RAD PACT management companies regarding broadband connectivity. Brett Sikoff clarifies OTI's role and the communication process with NYCHA. - Sikoff …

0:56:11

4 min

Q&A

Pricing and contract details of the Big Apple Connect program

Council Member Gutiérrez inquires about the pricing structure and contract details of the Big Apple Connect program. Brett Sikoff provides information on the current arrangements with service providers. - The …

1:00:43

69 sec

Q&A

Ongoing negotiations and future plans for Big Apple Connect

Brett Sikoff discusses the ongoing negotiations with service providers to ensure the long-term continuation of the Big Apple Connect program. Council Member Gutiérrez inquires about the program's future without baseline …

1:01:52

49 sec

Q&A

Potential impact on residents and concerns about long-term funding for Big Apple Connect

Council Member Gutiérrez raises concerns about the potential impact on residents if the Big Apple Connect program were to end, and questions the long-term sustainability of the program without baseline …

1:02:43

3 min

Q&A

Availability of current and past franchise agreements

Council Member Holden inquires about the public availability of current and past franchise agreements. Brett Sikoff from OTI confirms that all franchise agreements are available on the city's website, with …

1:05:56

53 sec

Q&A

Discussion on New York State broadband map and interactive mapping tools

Council Member Holden inquires about the New York State broadband map and the possibility of creating an interactive map for public use. Brett Sikoff confirms the existence of the state …

1:06:56

66 sec

Q&A

Current practices in cable provider regulation and complaint handling

Council Member Holden expresses concerns about cable provider performance, regulation, and complaint handling. Brett Sikoff explains the current practices and provisions in place to address these issues. - Council Member …

1:08:01

67 sec

Q&A

Potential improvements in complaint tracking and public information for cable providers

Council Member Holden discusses the need for better centralization and public access to complaint information about cable providers. Brett Sikoff mentions the current system and potential for improvement. - Complaints …

1:09:08

56 sec

Q&A

City Bridge partnership with Zenfi and 5G tower installation progress

Council Member Holden inquires about the progress of 5G tower installations since City Bridge announced its partnership with Zenfi. Brett Sikoff provides information on the current status of installations. - …

1:10:04

22 sec

Q&A

Progress on Link NYC kiosk installations since City Bridge and Zenfi partnership

Council Member Holden inquires about the number of additional Link NYC kiosks installed since the announcement of the partnership between City Bridge and Zenfi. Brett Sikoff provides information on the …

1:10:26

35 sec

Q&A

City Bridge's current status on franchise payments to the city

Council Member Holden inquires about City Bridge's current status regarding required franchise payments to the city, referencing previous issues with payments. Brett Sikoff provides a brief update on the payment …

1:11:03

22 sec

Q&A

Comparison of Big Apple Connect to the Internet Master Plan

Council Member Jennifer Gutiérrez questions Brett Sikoff about the comparison between the $2 billion budgeted for the Internet Master Plan and the current Big Apple Connect program. They discuss the …

1:11:37

75 sec

Q&A

OTI's approach to long-term broadband infrastructure investments

Brett Sikoff explains OTI's rationale for focusing on Big Apple Connect instead of investing in new broadband infrastructure. He argues that existing infrastructure is sufficient and that investing in new …

1:12:52

74 sec

Q&A

Guarantees and funding challenges for Big Apple Connect

Council Member Gutiérrez challenges Brett Sikoff on the long-term guarantees and funding stability of the Big Apple Connect program. Sikoff defends the program's immediate benefits while acknowledging some uncertainties. - …

1:14:07

57 sec

Q&A

Cost-benefit analysis of Big Apple Connect vs Internet Master Plan

Council Member Gutiérrez inquires about any cost-benefit analysis comparing the Big Apple Connect model to the Internet Master Plan. Brett Sikoff admits no specific assessment was conducted but defends the …

1:15:05

55 sec

Q&A

Plans for expanding broadband access beyond NYCHA

Council Member Gutiérrez presses Brett Sikoff on OTI's plans to expand broadband access beyond NYCHA residents, highlighting the needs of other low-income communities. Sikoff reiterates the focus on Big Apple …

1:16:01

146 sec

Q&A

OTI's stance on comprehensive broadband planning and infrastructure

Council Member Gutiérrez questions OTI's opposition to developing a comprehensive broadband plan beyond Big Apple Connect. Brett Sikoff explains OTI's position against major new infrastructure investments. - Gutiérrez asks about …

1:18:27

98 sec

Q&A

Reasons for cable bundling in Big Apple Connect program

Council Member Jennifer Gutiérrez inquires about the requirement for cable in the Big Apple Connect program. Brett Sikoff explains that cable was included due to the existing infrastructure of cable …

1:20:06

51 sec

Q&A

Competitive process for selecting ISPs for Big Apple Connect

Council Member Jennifer Gutiérrez questions the competitive nature of the ISP selection process for Big Apple Connect. Brett Sikoff explains the requirements and limitations of the selection process. - The …

1:21:01

61 sec

Q&A

Negotiations with ISPs for Big Apple Connect program

Council Member Jennifer Gutiérrez inquires about the negotiations with Internet Service Providers (ISPs) for the Big Apple Connect program. Brett Sikoff provides details on the negotiation process and outcomes. - …

1:22:03

41 sec

Q&A

Cost difference between Internet-only and Internet+cable packages in Big Apple Connect

Council Member Jennifer Gutiérrez inquires about the cost difference between Internet-only and Internet+cable packages in the Big Apple Connect program. Brett Sikoff provides limited information on the pricing structure. - …

1:22:44

34 sec

Q&A

Usage of cable TV by Big Apple Connect subscribers

Council Member Jennifer Gutiérrez inquires about the usage of cable TV by Big Apple Connect subscribers. Brett Sikoff provides limited information on the topic. - OTI does not have data …

1:23:18

36 sec

Q&A

Potential for removing cable from Big Apple Connect program

Council Member Jennifer Gutiérrez questions the continued inclusion of cable in the Big Apple Connect program, given trends in cable subscription. Brett Sikoff responds to these inquiries. - Gutiérrez notes …

1:23:54

71 sec

Q&A

Surveying NYCHA residents about cable usage in Big Apple Connect

Council Member Jennifer Gutiérrez questions OTI's approach to surveying NYCHA residents about cable usage in the Big Apple Connect program. Brett Sikoff provides information on their current survey practices and …

1:25:06

52 sec

Q&A

Discussion of proposed legislation related to broadband access

Council Member Jennifer Gutiérrez and Brett Sikoff discuss proposed legislation related to broadband access, focusing on Councilmember Wan's bills. Sikoff expresses OTI's need for more information and concerns about implementation. …

1:26:14

102 sec

Q&A

Feasibility of providing free internet access in city agency buildings

Council Member Gutiérrez inquires about the possibility of city agencies providing free internet access to the public in their buildings. Neelesh Shah from DCAS explains that while they don't currently …

1:27:55

3 min

Q&A

Implementation of Intro 486: Sharing information on affordable internet programs

Council Member Gutiérrez inquires about the implementation of Intro 486, which focuses on providing information about affordable internet programs to students and families. OTI representatives discuss their plans for sharing …

1:31:23

3 min

Q&A

Repurposing of funds from the Internet Master Plan

Council Member Gutiérrez inquires about the status and repurposing of the $157 million originally allocated for the Internet Master Plan. OTI representatives explain how the funds have been redirected to …

1:35:29

132 sec

Q&A

Questioning the rationale for abandoning the Internet Master Plan

Council Member Gutiérrez inquires about the reasons for abandoning the Internet Master Plan, seeking to understand what aspects of the plan the current administration disagreed with. She emphasizes the effort …

1:37:43

88 sec

Q&A

Leveraging city assets for telecommunications equipment

Brett Sikoff discusses the aspect of leveraging city assets from the Internet Master Plan that is still being considered. He explains the recent request for information to explore using public …

1:39:11

60 sec

Q&A

Inquiry about formal evaluation of the Internet Master Plan

Council Member Gutiérrez questions whether a formal evaluation of the Internet Master Plan was conducted. Brett Sikoff indicates that while there were many discussions, he is unaware of a formal …

1:40:12

113 sec

Q&A

Examination of specific aspects of the Internet Master Plan implementation

Council Member Gutiérrez inquires about the implementation of specific elements of the Internet Master Plan, particularly focusing on the interagency broadband task force. Brett Sikoff discusses the current approach and …

1:42:05

160 sec

Q&A

Inquiry about completion of public asset inventory for broadband use

Council Member Gutiérrez inquires about the completion of the public asset inventory called for in the Internet Master Plan. Brett Sikoff explains the current status of the inventory and how …

1:44:46

40 sec

Q&A

Questioning the decision not to invest in new shared infrastructure

Council Member Gutiérrez questions the decision not to invest in new shared infrastructure as outlined in the Internet Master Plan. Brett Sikoff explains the administration's reasoning and current approach to …

1:45:34

44 sec

Q&A

Discussion on potential gaps in fiber infrastructure coverage

Council Member Gutiérrez inquires about potential gaps in fiber infrastructure coverage, referencing previous testimony. Brett Sikoff explains the current state of broadband infrastructure in the city. - Gutiérrez asks if …

1:46:24

57 sec

Q&A

Incentives for small providers to build out infrastructure outside Manhattan's core

Brett Sikoff explains the incentives offered by the city to encourage small providers to build out broadband infrastructure outside of Manhattan's core. Council Member Gutiérrez seeks clarification on these incentives. …

1:47:22

42 sec

Q&A

Debate on whether public infrastructure creates long-term affordability

Council Member Gutiérrez and Brett Sikoff discuss the premise that public infrastructure creates long-term affordability in broadband access. Sikoff explains the current administration's perspective on this issue. - Gutiérrez asks …

1:48:04

56 sec

Q&A

Inquiry about shared infrastructure in the Big Apple Connect program

Council Member Gutiérrez inquires about the infrastructure used in the Big Apple Connect program, particularly whether any of it is shared. Brett Sikoff provides information about the program's infrastructure. - …

1:49:15

53 sec

Q&A

Council Member Holden questions OTI on Citybridge's community engagement for Link NYC and 5G tower placement

Council Member Robert F. Holden inquires about Citybridge's engagement with community boards regarding the placement of Link NYC kiosks and 5G link towers. Brett Sikoff from the Office of Technology …

1:50:10

165 sec

REMARKS

Council Member Restler criticizes OTI's community engagement for 5G tower installation

Council Member Lincoln Restler expresses strong dissatisfaction with the Office of Technology and Innovation's (OTI) community engagement process for installing 5G towers. He describes the current process as 'disgraceful' and …

1:53:02

95 sec

Q&A

Council Member Restler questions OTI on current community engagement practices

Council Member Restler engages in a detailed questioning of Brett Sikoff from OTI about the extent of their community engagement for 5G tower installations. The discussion reveals disagreements about what …

1:54:38

3 min

REMARKS

Council Member Restler proposes legislation to improve community engagement for 5G installations

Council Member Restler announces his intention to draft new legislation to regulate and improve OTI's community engagement process for 5G tower installations. He emphasizes the need for a more comprehensive …

1:57:56

23 sec

Q&A

Council Member Gutiérrez questions OTI on Wi-Fi in parks and the Internet Master Plan

Council Member Jennifer Gutiérrez engages in a discussion with Brett Sikoff from the Office of Technology and Innovation (OTI) about Wi-Fi availability in city parks and the status of the …

1:58:45

4 min

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Andrew Rasiej, Founder of Civic Hall

Andrew Rasiej, founder of Civic Hall, testified about the importance of broadband access and digital equity in New York City. He emphasized the need to focus on adoption, digital skills, …

2:10:06

155 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Ash Wolfson, Volunteer Installer/Outreach Leader at NYC MESH

Ash Wolfson, a volunteer installer and outreach leader with NYC MESH, provided testimony on the importance of affordable and accessible internet for all New Yorkers. He highlighted NYC MESH's work …

2:12:48

128 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Michael Santorelli, Director of the Advanced Communications Law and Policy Institute at New York Law School

Michael Santorelli argues that the Internet Master Plan is a supply-side solution to a demand-side problem, emphasizing that broadband adoption issues cannot be solved solely by building infrastructure. He presents …

2:15:03

158 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Alex Spyropoulos, Director of Government Relations at Tech:NYC

Alex Spyropoulos, representing Tech:NYC, expresses strong support for Intro 1122, which requires OTI to create a comprehensive plan for universal, affordable, and equitable internet access in New York City. The …

2:17:47

126 sec

Q&A

Q&A with Ash Wolfson on gaps in the digital roadmap

Council Member Gutiérrez engages in a Q&A session with Ash Wolfson about potential gaps in the city's digital roadmap and the quality of internet connections. - Discusses the need to …

2:20:04

98 sec

Q&A

Q&A on strategies to connect holdouts and address the digital divide

Council Member Gutiérrez leads a Q&A session with Michael Santorelli and Andrew Rasiej, focusing on strategies to connect holdouts and address the broader digital divide. - Discusses reasons why people …

2:21:42

3 min

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Noel Hidalgo, Executive Director of Beta NYC, on Digital Literacy and Broadband Access

Noel Hidalgo, Executive Director of Beta NYC, testified on the importance of digital literacy and broadband access in New York City. He emphasized the need for viewing digital literacy as …

2:26:29

171 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Susan Peters, Member of New Yorkers 4 Wired Tech, on Wireless Communication Risks

Susan Peters, representing New Yorkers for Wired Tech, testifies against bills expanding wireless communication, citing health concerns and regulatory issues. She emphasizes the potential risks of electromagnetic radiation from wireless …

2:29:25

152 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Stuart Reid, Co-chair of Smart Community Initiative, on NYC Internet Master Plan and Broadband Equity

Stuart Reid, Co-chair of the Smart Community Initiative, testified about the Internet Master Plan and the city's approach to broadband equity. He criticized the current administration's decision to pause community-operated …

2:32:05

3 min

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by James Ford, Member of the Public

James Ford provides testimony about the importance of considering dual-use technology in the context of broadband infrastructure. He references Dr. James Giordano's lectures on the weaponization of neuroscience and emphasizes …

2:36:18

106 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Odette Wilkens, President and General Counsel of Wired Broadband Inc, on NYC Broadband Strategy and Digital Equity

Odette Wilkens, representing Wired Broadband Inc and the NYC Alliance for Safe Technology, critiqued the proposed bills and current broadband strategy, emphasizing concerns about 5G deployment, health risks, and the …

2:38:16

3 min

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Keziah Sullivan, Interim General Manager of WHCR 90.3 FM Harlem Community Radio

Keziah Sullivan, Interim General Manager of WHCR 90.3 FM Harlem Community Radio, testified about their emergency communications initiative developed in response to Superstorm Sandy. She highlighted the importance of localized, …

2:42:00

3 min

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Jose Luis Rodriguez, Executive Director of Caribbean Preparedness and Response Inc

Jose Luis Rodriguez, Executive Director of Caribbean Preparedness and Response Inc (CPR), testified on the importance of broadband access and digital equity initiatives. He expressed support for the proposed legislation …

2:45:35

3 min

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Bernard Otalora, Member of the Public, on 5G Tower Installation Near PS 144

Bernard Otalora testifies against the installation of a 5G tower near PS 144, an elementary school in New York City. He argues that the tower is unnecessary, potentially harmful to …

2:49:51

3 min

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Julie Martin, Volunteer from New Yorkers 4 Wired Tech

Julie Martin, a volunteer from New Yorkers 4 Wired Tech, testified about the importance of wired technology over wireless and the need to complete fiber optic infrastructure in New York …

2:53:20

124 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Sharon Brown, Member of the Public, on Internet Access for All New Yorkers

Sharon Brown testifies on the importance of universal internet access in New York City, emphasizing its necessity for daily activities such as job searching, education, and civic participation. She advocates …

2:55:29

137 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Clayton Banks, CEO of Silicon Harlem, on broadband access and digital equity

Clayton Banks, CEO of Silicon Harlem, strongly supports Intro 1122 and related bills aimed at closing the digital divide and expanding broadband access in New York City. He emphasizes the …

2:58:50

140 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Joseph Dumanov, Electronic Communications Engineer on 5G and Health Concerns

Joseph Dumanov, an electronic communications engineer with a background in medical mycology and clinical molecular biology, testified about the potential health impacts of 5G and electromagnetic radiation. He argued that …

3:01:41

3 min

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Stanley Chan, Community Member from Forest Hills, Queens

Stanley Chan, a community member and father from Forest Hills, Queens, expresses concerns about a 5G tower recently installed outside PS 144 on Junuo Street. He argues that the tower's …

3:05:10

148 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Stephanie Robinson, Representative from Human-I-T on Digital Equity Initiatives

Stephanie Robinson, representing Human-I-T, testified in support of several NYC Council bills aimed at expanding digital equity initiatives. She emphasized the positive impact of their programs on academic achievement, access …

3:07:47

85 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Tracy Appleton on 5G Tower Placement Concerns

Tracy Appleton expresses serious concerns about the placement of a 5G tower outside her daughter's bedroom window, echoing previous testimony about community dissatisfaction with the deployment process. She highlights the …

3:09:25

125 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Christopher Leon Johnson, Member of the Public, on WiFi Access in NYC Subway Trains

Christopher Leon Johnson, a member of the public, calls for WiFi access on all NYC subway trains. He emphasizes the need for internet access for poor and "broke" people, arguing …

3:11:54

77 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Jerelyn Rodriguez, CEO and Cofounder of The Knowledge House, on Digital Equity and Tech Workforce Development

Jerelyn Rodriguez, CEO and Cofounder of The Knowledge House, testified about their nonprofit's mission to empower a talent pipeline of technologists from underrepresented communities. She highlighted the digital divide, emphasized …

3:13:28

159 sec

PUBLIC TESTIMONY

Testimony by Ari Hoenig, Homeowner from Greenpoint, Brooklyn

Ari Hoenig, a homeowner in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, testified about his concerns regarding a 5G tower installed near his property without prior notice. He expressed worry about potential health risks, particularly …

3:16:21

138 sec

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