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PUBLIC TESTIMONY
Testimony by Alex Spyropoulos, Director of Government Relations at Tech:NYC
2:17:47
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126 sec
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 testimony emphasizes the critical importance of digital equity and the need for a collaborative approach to close the digital divide.
- Highlights the necessity of internet access for jobs, education, government services, and civic participation
- Praises the legislation's focus on multi-agency coordination, public-private partnerships, and targeted outreach
- Emphasizes that addressing infrastructure alone is not enough; affordability, accessibility, digital literacy, and trust must also be considered
Alex Spyropoulos
2:17:47
Madam chair and members of the committee, thank you for the opportunity to testify today.
2:17:51
My name is Alex Viroplis and I'm the director of government relations at Tech NYC, an organization representing more than 550 technology companies.
2:17:59
Our membership includes hundreds of innovative startups as well as some of the largest tech companies in the world.
2:18:04
We are committed to ensuring that the tech sector remains a leading driver of the city's overall economy and that all New Yorkers can benefit from innovation.
2:18:11
We are here to express our strong support for intro eleven twenty two which will require OTI to create and publish a comprehensive plan for achieving universal, affordable, and equitable Internet access across New York City.
2:18:22
This legislation addresses one of the most critical issues facing our city today, digital equity.
2:18:27
In an increasingly connected world, access to the Internet is not a luxury.
2:18:31
It is a necessity.
2:18:32
It affects how residents find jobs, access education, communicate with government services, and participate in civic life.
2:18:39
Gaps in broadband access continue to reinforce existing disparities in income, geography, and opportunity.
2:18:45
We applaud the legislation's comprehensive and forward looking framework by focusing on multi agency coordination, public private partnerships, and targeted outreach.
2:18:53
This bill sets the stage for a citywide effort to close the digital divide.
2:18:57
It recognizes that addressing infrastructure alone is not enough.
2:19:01
We must also consider affordability, accessibility, digital literacy, and trust in the system.
2:19:07
We also believe that the collaboration this legislation envisions between city government, Internet service providers, community based organizations, and private sector partners can serve as a model for how to tackle large scale cross cutting challenges in an inclusive and equitable way.
2:19:21
Tech NYC stands ready to be a partner in that effort.
2:19:24
Our members are deeply invested in New York City's future.
2:19:27
A more connected population helps build stronger workforce pipelines, fosters innovation, and ensures all communities can participate in and benefit from the city's tech driven economy.
2:19:37
This legislation is not just good policy, it is a critical investment in the long term health and equity in this of our city.
2:19:43
We thank the city council for continued leadership in advancing digital inclusion and urge the swift passage of 11/22.
2:19:50
I appreciate the opportunity to testify today and happy to answer any questions.