Gonzales working to close the digital divide

When it comes to the internet, there are haves and have nots. It’s called the digital divide and cities across the country are trying to close it.

On Monday, the City of Gonzales announced it had collaborated with other cities to create a resource guide for local governments as they address the issue in their communities.

The broadband resource guide, titled Access and Inclusion in the Digital Age, is the first of its kind. It was developed in collaboration between six member cities of the National Resource Network: Gonzales; Chattanooga, TN; Greensboro, NC; New Orleans, LA; Springfield, MO; and Youngstown, OH; and other partners.

In Monterey County, the Central Coast Broadband Consortium, a group of local governments, agencies and community organizations, has been studying the issue for years. Harold Wolgamott, Gonzales public works director, said their work gave the city a head start.

“We are fortunate to have this body of knowledge available and Gonzales is glad to participate in this effort to improve broadband access and literacy to assist our communities progress in the 21 st century,” Wolgamott said in a press release.

The resource guide outlines key steps for local governments to take in enhancing broadband access. It includes information on creating partnerships, securing funding, and measuring and managing the performance of programs and initiatives