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Board of County Commissioners Meeting Minutes - Final May 3, 2022 The presentation continued with a closer look at the three (3) recommendations to increase broadband service in the County: 1) partner with Fellsmere to expand their fiber network and add wireless capability for rural residents; 2) provide wireless broadband to the Gifford area until the County's fiber network was constructed; and 3) build a phased -in Countywide fiber network to connect County facilities and promote greater services for all residents. Included in the options were cost estimates, timelines, possible funding sources, and ideas to have the network pay for its own operating costs. In response to Chairman O'Bryan's question, Director Russell informed that most of the County's existing fiber network was in use or had been damaged by construction, and investment in new infrastructure was needed. Additional discussion was had regarding the capacity of fiber and the need to structure the network to maximize service. Mr. Hollifield resumed his presentation with the cost to operate a County network, as well as information on leasing unused capacity to recoup costs and generate revenue. He concluded with the next steps, and advised the County to complete the design -engineering phase in order to be "shovel ready" and best positioned for upcoming State and Federal grants. Discussion ensued with the Board receiving information regarding increased market competition, and the cost to complete the design -engineering phase. Director Russell also advised that the Department of Broadband Opportunity Office was aware of the County's plan. Commissioner Adams advocated for using the already -budgeted $4 million American Rescue Plan (ARP) funds to execute the Fellsmere expansion for an estimated cost of $3,080,000 (Option 1), the Gifford wireless network estimated at $144,900 (Option 2), and begin work toward Option 3 in light of growing needs and potential financial assistance. The Commissioners each expressed their support for moving forward with all three options in order to serve immediate needs and simultaneously plan construction of a fiber network. Chairman O'Bryan expressed enthusiasm for capitalizing on the County's momentum and moving forward with Option 3, starting with the design -engineering phase, estimated at $870,000. The Board received confirmation from staff that Options 1 and 2 could be completed under Magellan's contract, but the design -engineering plan for the network would need to go through the Request For Quote (RFQ) process. Director Russell estimated it would take two to four weeks to prepare for the RFQ process. Mr. Hollifield and County Administrator Jason Brown provided additional information on a phased approach for providing service. Under discussion, Miguel Davila -Duran addressed the Board with support for the County's network plan. Indian River County Florida Page 12