BP Adams Releases Statement On Opposition To FCRC Vote On Renewing Verizon's Citywide Franchise

Press release from the Office of the Brooklyn Borough President:

January 13 2021

“It is taking way too long to close our digital divide. Everyday New Yorkers cannot understand how we are well into the 21st century while still depending on 20th century infrastructure. Government has not exercised its full franchising and regulatory power to deliver on this most fundamental promise, and aspiring internet providers have not sufficiently stepped up to the plate to bridge communities that have been left behind. We must be clear that high-speed, high-quality broadband access is not a luxury good, but a necessity for remote learning, working from home, and even getting an appointment for a COVID-19 vaccine.

“Three months ago, in response to startling revelations of our City’s failure to ensure every student can log into their classrooms and learn, particularly those in shelters and temporary housing, I called on our major technology and internet providers to go further in their community benefits, including free broadband and wireless service for all students in need. I declared my intent to vote against any FCRC franchise renewal that lacked a firm timetable to close the digital divide and commitment to greater assistance for families struggling to connect to remote learning. I communicated that intent in a subsequent letter to our current internet franchisees, and that intent was repeated at a FCRC meeting a couple days ago.

“Unfortunately, while a recent agreement with Verizon led to an announced expansion of its broadband footprint, the moment we face demands that they, and all our prospective franchisees, present a far more significant build-out plan that has yet to be put forward. A real recovery for our city demands higher standards from all of us. Because of this, as well as unresolved concerns for protecting the Public Access programming of organizations like BRIC, BronxNet, and MNN, I will not support this franchise renewal at this time. I hope that this sends a clear message on behalf of all New Yorkers who expect more. It is time for a true Universal Internet Guarantee.”

This press release was produced by the Office of the Brooklyn Borough President. The views expressed are the author's own.