Internet Task Force

Background

In August of 2020, Market Van Buren organized the first meeting of the Van Buren County Internet Task Force (ITF). The ITF was comprised of representatives from a variety of stakeholders, including community leaders and elected officials, local internet service providers, and technology experts. This group was convened to discuss the issue of broadband access and expansion in Van Buren County and potential means to address the technological disadvantage faced by many county residents. 

The following statement was established to articulate the mission and vision of the ITF:

 Broadband is the great equalizer between rural and urban communities. Reliable, high-speed internet levels the playing field by allowing our community’s residents to connect with educational resources, healthcare, and economic opportunities that may otherwise be unavailable. 

It is our goal that every household and business in Van Buren County has access to affordable broadband internet service. 

The role of the Internet Task Force is to champion the improvement of internet infrastructure within Van Buren County by accelerating existing projects and leading new initiatives. The Internet Task Force places particular emphasis on supporting projects in unserved and underserved areas.

While the County has taken the lead on local internet mapping efforts, the Internet Task Force continues to meet to promote community collaboration on broadband expansion, provide support to ongoing mapping efforts, and explore grant opportunities to further expand broadband access in Van Buren County.

Meeting Schedule

The Internet Task Force meets virtually on the second Thursday of the month at 9 a.m. If you are interested in attending future Internet Task Force meetings, please contact Sarah Snoeyink to receive the Zoom link at [email protected]. 

Meeting Materials

March 28, 2022 | Van Buren County municipal leaders were invited to a meeting to discuss the County's ongoing broadband mapping effort and  opportunities for collaboration between the County and local municipalities in pursuit of broadband expansion.