Robert E. Bridgham

Key discussions during the meeting included the System Status and Build Report, noting that 26 of 28 WiFi Hotspots are in service and reporting the current active residential customer count of 4550 across various locations. Old business involved updates on the VATI FY22 Report, which has completed its audit, and the BEAD Program Progress, anticipating procurement startup once contracts are signed. New business featured the review of the staff complaint policy and the consideration and adoption of the 2026 board meeting schedule, which included moving the November meeting to December. The Treasurer's Report was presented, and the Board entered a Closed Session to discuss contracted revenue, proprietary business strategy, and internal costing of commercial products, followed by the approval of staff bonuses.

The meeting included discussions on WiFi hotspots, residential broadband, the WISP EVPL program, the Microcommunity Program, and USDA grants. Updates were provided on the Bailey Neck & Mt Nebo CDF project and the Custis Neck & Locustville project. The VATI FY22 report indicated that ESVBA should be receiving an additional reimbursement in November. The board also discussed the BEAD program progress and a staff complaint policy. The Executive Director's salary was raised by 3% after the closed session.

The Eastern Shore Broadband Authority's meeting included discussions on agenda adoption, public comments regarding the percentage of the shore serviced by ESVBA, and competition from satellite services. The board reviewed and approved the minutes from the December meeting and received a system status and build report, including updates on WiFi hotspots, residential broadband, the WISP EVPL program, the Microcommunity Program, and assistance programs. Old business included a VATI FY22 report and a rate hearing to add 100Gbps dedicated internet pricing. New business involved considering an increase to the line of credit due to cash flow concerns related to the VATI project. Additionally, the treasurer's report was presented, and the board entered a closed session to discuss personnel matters and contracted revenue.

The meeting addressed system status, build reports, and old business including the VATI FY22 report and BEAD status. New business involved considering the 2025 Board Meeting Schedule and a resolution to authorize the ED to execute USDA RUS forms. The Treasurer's report was reviewed, followed by board comments and an optional closed session to discuss contracted revenue and personnel matters. Additionally, there were discussions regarding opening a new bank account for a grant, budget amendments for upgrading core routers and circuits, and revisions to the employee handbook concerning jury duty compensation.

The work session of the Eastern Shore Broadband Authority involved discussions regarding the remaining funds from bond proceeds. The board considered options for expending the remaining funds, including further network expansions, providing additional assistance to customer connections, and purchasing additional resources to enhance underground capabilities. A recommendation was made to procure a large vibratory plow platform and expend the remaining funds on additional routes.