Los Angeles councilman proposes new department to improve broadband internet access

A city councilman proposed that Los Angeles (CA) study creating a new publicly owned and operated department to provide affordable broadband internet services to residents. According to a motion introduced by Councilman Paul Krekorian, the new department's mission would be to improve the city's network capabilities, provide community and economic development with at-cost internet service to businesses and residents and bridge the digital divide among neighborhoods lacking high-speed services.

"Los Angeles owns a network of fiber-optic cable that runs through every part of the city,'' Krekorian said. ``I want to see if we can maximize its use and ensure that everyone has access to fast, affordable internet services.''