​Digital Marin​ To Identify And Eliminate Gaps In Digital Divide

MARIN COUNTY, CA — A new project aims to develop a strategic plan to address internet access and digital equity gaps in Marin County.

Digital Marin will look beyond infrastructure needs and identify opportunities for data sharing, efficiencies, resiliency and digital service improvements.

According to the county, the plan will outline projects and initiatives to help reach these goals:

• Everyone has access to high-speed internet and knows how to use it;
• Public agencies, nonprofits and non-governmental organizations share data, where appropriate, to better serve communities;
• Opportunities are highlighted for more efficient, transparent and customer-oriented cross-jurisdictional and cross-sector service delivery; and
• Marin has a resilient information network that can withstand disasters.

"The internet is a fundamental element of our lives, and some members of our community are being left behind," County Supervisor Dennis Rodoni said. "This effort will help identify and close these gaps, giving everyone in Marin a better chance to succeed in today's world."

The collaboration is driven by an 11-member steering committee comprised of residents and leaders from government agencies, nonprofits, healthcare, education and business sectors. The committee will oversee an inclusive process for seeking input and feedback from the community.

"A great example of this kind of collaboration is the free Wi-Fi network we built together in the Canal area this summer," San Rafael Mayor Kate Colin said. "It's imperative to involve the community in this way so we design solutions with, and not for. We're excited to do this work together."

Magellan Advisors has been contracted to help develop the strategic plan, according to the county. A fellow from the Marin Promise Partnership is also supporting the effort.