The Breathitt, Estill, Lee and Powell Regional Technology Authority (RTA) received several responses to the RFP by the deadline of April 5, 2010. The RFP Evaluation Committee, which is composed of the RTA members and supported by ConnectKentucky as technical advisor, reviewed all RFP responses as a group on April 8, 2010. The RFP Evaluation Committee conducted follow up in-person oral interviews on April 23, 2010.
The RFP Evaluation Committee held another review meeting on April 29th in Beattyville. The meeting was held to discuss what the committee observed during the oral interviews and to discuss steps towards making a decision on selecting a company for the broadband network. ConnectKentucky participated in answering technical questions and provided background information, before the committee went into deliberations. The RFP Evaluation Committee made the strategic decision to move in a cautious, deliberate manner for selecting a broadband company. Rushing the selection of a company could only compromise the evaluation process. All four county’s representatives on the Evaluation Committee need an adequate opportunity to provide feedback during the RFP evaluation and selection process.
Selection of a winning respondent will not be announced until after completion of contract negotiations are finalized to allow the RTA a full range of options in working with broadband companies.