Webinar: Broadband Progress in Maine

Wed., Sep. 25, 2019, 11am to Noon

Location:

Broadband Progress: Where we are, and strategies for making the case.

Broadband Progress: Where we are, and strategies for making the case. In this webinar, MTUG features a legislative and programmatic update on broadband expansion in Maine from two of Maine’s frontline advocates, Peggy Schaffer of the ConnectME Authority and Nick Battista of the Island Institute, both of whom also serve on the advisory committee for the Maine Broadband Coalition.

Peggy and Nick briefly present the array of programs in place for improving broadband access statewide, how communities can engage them, and the legislative pipeline that may help (or hinder) progress. The speakers also discuss case studies of how some communities have engaged these efforts to introduce or improve high speed internet access, and the impact it has had.

Lastly, speakers cover the points that technology leaders can make in their effort to improve broadband access for their operations, their employees, and their customers.

Want to help out with mapping Broadband in your area?
Curious about the reported service in other communities?
Link to spreadsheets of unserved and MLAB test site for reporting broadband speed:
https://www.maine.gov/connectme/communities-resources/Broadbandmapping

Check out upcoming important Maine Broadband-related events coming soon - listed at MaineBroadbandCoalition.org

• Thurs. Oct. 24, 2019 - Biddeford - GrowSmart Maine Annual Summit, "Smart Growth Builds Wellness"
• Mon. & Tues. Oct. 28 & 29, 2019 - Thomas College, Waterville - Maine Broadband Annual Summit

MTUG thanks our volunteer Board Members James Harder and Joe Bouragult for assisting with this session.

Speakers

Nick Battista

Senior Policy Officer, The Island Institute

Nick provides proactive and strategic policy support for many key projects at the Island Institute, including their longtime advocacy of connecting communities with quality broadband. Prior to becoming the Senior Policy Officer, Nick spent six years as the Marine Programs Director at the Island Institute. He also serves on the advisory committee for the Maine Broadband Coalition. Nick has JD from Roger Williams University School of Law, a Masters in Marine Affairs from the University of Rhode Island and went to Colby College. Nick and his family live in Camden.

Peggy Schaffer

Executive Director, ConnectME Authority

Prior to her directorship at ConnectME Authority, Peggy served as the co-chair of the Maine Broadband Coalition, a statewide group advocating for high speed broadband, where she was a tireless advocate of informing communities of opportunities and programs for broadband expansion. In addition, she was the Small Business Advocate for the Secretary of State's office, and was the Chief of Staff in the Senate Majority Office and the Senate President's office. Peggy also worked as the lobbyist for the Department of Economic and Community Development where she worked to help create Maine’s Research and Development infrastructure. Peggy holds an MBA from Thomas College, and lives in Vassalboro.