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PUBLIC TESTIMONY
Testimony by Jose Luis Rodriguez, Executive Director of Caribbean Preparedness and Response Inc
2:45:35
·
3 min
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 while highlighting gaps in the city's current approach to digital equity and broadband expansion.
- CPR is involved in various initiatives to expand broadband access in underserved communities, including satellite-based solutions and digital navigation programs.
- Rodriguez emphasized the need for better integration of digital equity principles in the city's plans and coordination across all levels of government.
- He strongly supported Intro 1122, calling for a comprehensive broadband expansion plan that includes alternative technologies and an advisory board.
Jose Luis Rodriguez
2:45:35
Good afternoon, chair Gutierrez and members of the committee.
2:45:39
My name is Jose Luis Rodriguez and I serve as executive director of the Caribbean Preparedness and Response Inc, CPR.
2:45:48
CPR is a not for profit organization dedicated to resilience and digital participation for Caribbean and Latino communities both here in New York City and across the broader region, including other parts of the state.
2:46:05
Puerto Rico, Connecticut, and Pennsylvania are also parts that we service.
2:46:11
Since our inception, responding to emergencies, not a what a coincidence.
2:46:18
Mhmm.
2:46:19
In the in The Caribbean, our mission has focused on the role of communications and connectivity in disaster preparedness and recovery involving diaspora communities.
2:46:33
Today, we're leading efforts to expand access to broadband in under resource communities through satellites satellite based solutions, digital navigation programs, digital community centers, youth center digital learning initiative, and workforce development.
2:46:54
Among others, with the goal of continuing operating and growing as an offer profit Internet provider for our communities.
2:47:04
We believe that any legislative effort to bolster access to broadband is not only noble but essential.
2:47:12
These bills reflect a shared understanding that connectivity is a lifeline for education, employment, health, and civic participation.
2:47:22
We support these bills.
2:47:24
However, I want to raise an important gap.
2:47:27
The city's digital equity framework does not reference the state digital equity plan nor does the current Internet master plan meaningfully integrate digital equity as a guiding principle.
2:47:41
We urge the council to ensure future versions for both plans center this concept more especially and coordinate across all levels of government.
2:47:51
Finally, with regard to intro eleven twenty two, we believe this bill is critical.
2:47:58
A comprehensive and regularly updated broadband expansion plan including the use of alternative technologies as defined by the state such as unlicensed fixed wireless, low earth orbit, LEO satellite services paired with an advisory board, it is exactly the kind of strategic infrastructure we need.
2:48:20
CPR will be honored to support this effort in any capacity that might be helpful.
2:48:26
Additionally, Citi should include provisions to incentivize and support alternative intercessory providers like CPR
Jennifer Gutiérrez
2:48:34
It please
Jose Luis Rodriguez
2:48:34
as part of the broadband expansion.
Jennifer Gutiérrez
2:48:36
I'm sorry.
Jose Luis Rodriguez
2:48:37
Thank you.