Community Broadband Master Plan Guidebook

IntroductionThe State of New Mexico Broadband Program was founded on the belief that the Internet is animportant tool for economic, educational, and civic growth and discourse—and that it is imperative thatall residents have broadband connectivity. To that end, we seek to build broadband capacity andenhance broadband adoption by providing municipal and tribal entities across the state with tools thatwill help them plan for their broadband futures.In straightforward language and with action-oriented summaries, this guidebook explores a range ofproven technical, business, and partnership models—as well as some that are more cutting edge.Importantly, the guidebook also frankly assesses the benefits and risks of each model, so thatcommunities can determine the best approach for their unique circumstances.This guidebook is not meant to be a comprehensive guide—because every community that considersthe feasibility of broadband networking must customize the analysis of its own needs, potential benefits,and risks. Instead, the guidebook focuses on empowering native nations, towns, cities, and counties byhelping them understand the type of questions they need to be asking. It also lists “next steps” andoffers actionable advice on issues such as where communities can look for partners, what type offunding opportunities exist, and what the risks and rewards of broadband networking might be for thegovernment and its citizens.Who Should Be at the Table?Local elected officials and their staffs often have the necessary experience to oversee significant localinfrastructure initiatives. Community broadband initiatives, however, typically require involvement frommany agencies and departments, and benefit from the inclusion of public institutions and potentialprivate sector partners. Such an initiative would also benefit from the inclusion of team members whohave hands-on experience with telecommunications initiatives, if such expertise exists within thecommunity.As communities embark on broadband projects, we recommend that the project leader build a teamthat includes both potential users and potential beneficiaries of a communications network. Typically,these stakeholders will include representatives—often the chief information officer, chief technologyofficer, or IT director—from among the following types of organizations:Municipal/tribal departments of information technology (IT)Public and private schools and school systemsPublic library systemsCommunity colleges and technical/vocational collegesMajor hospital/healthcare providersNMBB Program: Community Broadband Master Plan Guidebook 1