Craig Nelsen

The Board of Directors meeting agenda included the review of financial reports for October 2025, payment approvals for October 2025, and consideration of Resolution No. 236 concerning the election of a Vice President to fill a vacancy. An update from the Jefferson PUD Member was also planned for discussion.

The Community Economic Revitalization Board (CERB) is an independent, rule-policy making board established in 1982 to invest in public infrastructure supporting private job creation and economic development in Washington. Its strategic direction focuses on financing public infrastructure for business development, assisting local governments with economic development and broadband planning, and funding public broadband infrastructure for rural underserved communities. Key programs include Planning, Grants, Loans/Limited Grants for Committed Private Partner and Prospective Development projects, and Rural Broadband initiatives. The plan aims to drive job creation, promote innovation, expand markets, serve the needs of education, healthcare, public safety, and government systems, and improve accessibility for underserved populations. A specific initiative, Rural Broadband 2018-2021, highlights significant investments in connectivity, modernizing local economies, and increasing access to economic opportunities and essential services.

This document outlines Lewis County's strategic approach to addressing the broadband problem. It details the expansion of broadband infrastructure, including leasing excess capacity and generating revenue, and the integration of telecommunication and broadband into the county's strategic plan since 2019. Key initiatives involve implementing technical services, accounting systems, mapping, customer care, and outage management, with timelines extending into 2022. The plan emphasizes leveraging existing partnerships and contracts, collaborating with entities like NoaNet, ToledoTel, and the Lewis County Broadband Action Team, and applying lessons learned regarding resource utilization, clear vision, and effective communication.

This Digital Equity Plan Summary outlines efforts to bridge the digital divide and enhance digital inclusion across Chelan, Douglas, Grant, and Okanogan Counties. It focuses on three core building blocks of digital empowerment: ensuring reliable internet connection, providing affordable devices, and developing essential digital skills. The plan, guided by the NCW Digital Access and Equity Coalition, aims to achieve enhanced access for underserved populations, increase visibility for digital equity work, foster knowledge sharing and collaboration, and improve funding. The ultimate vision is to create an inclusive society where all individuals have equitable access to information, education, job opportunities, healthcare, and civic engagement through digital means, thereby fostering economic growth and improving quality of life.