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AGENCY TESTIMONY
Introduction and overview of OTI's broadband and digital equity efforts
0:05:55
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86 sec
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 a modern utility and outlines the administration's commitment to providing free high-speed internet to residents.
- OTI considers internet access essential for participation in modern digital society
- The administration aims to address the 30-40% lack of internet access among public housing residents
- NYC now provides more residents with free high-speed internet than any other U.S. city
Brett Sikoff
0:05:55
Good morning, chair Bieteers and members of the city council committee on technology.
0:05:59
My name is Brett Sykoff, and I am the Executive Director of Broadband and Franchise Administration for the Office of Technology and Innovation, or OTI.
0:06:08
With me is Samantha Wright, OTI's Associate Commissioner for External Partnerships and Chantal Senatas, OTI's Deputy Commissioner, excuse me, for legal matters.
0:06:17
We're pleased to discuss our recent efforts and future plans related to broadband and digital equity with the committee today.
0:06:24
Under the leadership of Chief Technology Officer Matthew Fraser, OTI has spearheaded numerous programs and initiatives focused on accomplishing Mayor Adams' vision of bridging the digital divide.
0:06:35
Internet access is essential to fully participate in our modern digital society, and we consider it akin to a modern utility like heat or hot water.
0:06:45
Prior to this administration, 30 to 40% of public housing residents lacked this basic modern necessity, an injustice that caused real harm to our older adults, students, families, and job seekers during the pandemic.
0:07:01
Today, thanks to the leadership of Mayor Adams and CTO Fraser, New York City provides more residents with free high speed Internet than any other city in the nation.
0:07:11
We also supply equitable access to devices, digital skills training, and support programs to ensure New Yorkers across the five boroughs are equipped to use the Internet.