• Maximize BEAD and Other Broadband Grant Opportunities: Assist in securing and effectively deploying Oregon BEAD and other broadband funding to subsidize the network’s construction and operational costs. This includes participation in the upcoming pre-qualification process, supplying network operator pre-qualification checklist items (see Exhibit 1 for BEAD pre-qualification checklist). • Deliver Reliable and Resilient Broadband: Establish a county-wide digital infrastructure network offering consistent, high-speed broadband services (minimum 100 Mbps symmetrical) to unserved and underserved areas. • Leverage Public Assets for Open Access: Maintain and utilize existing publicly funded assets to support a competitive digital infrastructure, encouraging multiple service providers to operate within the network. PUDs and Coops within Columbia County should be engaged to work in partnership with the network, with CAI locations (see Exhibit 2) included in network planning. • Ensure High-Quality Service Provision: Achieve a high level of customer satisfaction and responsiveness, positioning the network as a utility service provider with reliable support and service delivery • Network Redundancy, Reliability, Dual Paths to The Internet: Provide a network design that includes redundancy, fault tolerance, and diverse paths to internet to enable key criteria for attracting broadband dependent commercial and industrial development in the county
