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Town of Los Altos Hills, CA Project Page 5 Broadband is a 21 st century challenge ranked as one of the most important technology investments to make worldwide. It is key for economic development purposes, competitiveness, job creation and the new foundation for more prosperous communities. Although different technologies, the terms broadband and internet can be interchangeable terms that refer to ability to access the "NET" or internet. "High -Speed" Broadband is the term for devices to connect to the internet via wireless, fiber optics, hybrid fiber coax, or DSL technologies. The Federal Communications Commission has defined broadband as internet speeds of at least 25 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload. California has set a higher standard of 100Mbps down ad 20 Mbps up. The internet of things (IoT) is the concept that most devices can be connected to the internet to make life easier, faster, more efficient, and better. From refrigerators to televisions and cloud -based voice services, many devices and technologies will be connected to the internet with the ability to report data and provide information. Outside the home, there are smart city applications such as intelligent traffic control systems, smart irrigation systems, and total building monitoring systems, city-wide wi-fi networks, and much more. Technology advancements are creating an online reality that cannot be ignored, and any city/town that does not embrace this new reality will be left behind. Distance learning, telehealth, and remote working are requirements for residents to be able to function in this new online environment. Until recently, broadband was viewed as a luxury provided by the private sector, with cities and towns held captive by the whims of these companies regarding which geographic areas to build and provide these services. Water, power, and sewer are utilities that are a part of city planning efforts, and broadband must be included as a new utility and treated as such by towns, cities, counties, and states. Broadband communications have become a quality of life issue and is the foundation to improve the sustainability, workability, and livability of a community. GTG ©2023 DRAFT March 20, 2023 Resolution 76-23 Page 6