President Joe Biden announced Monday that 20 internet companies have agreed to provide discounted service to people with low incomes, a program that could effectively make tens of millions of households eligible for free service through an already existing federal subsidy. “High speed internet is not a luxury any longer. It’s a necessity,” Biden said at a sun-drenched rose garden event with representatives from participating companies, as well as members of Congress. The $1 trillion infrastructure package passed by Congress last year included $14.2 billion funding for the Affordable Connectivity Program, which provides $30 monthly subsidies ($75 in tribal areas) on [...]

The City of Andover could keep up to 15% of the insurance claim settlements on a home that suffers at least 75% loss following the recent tornado. Some homeowners say that doesn't seem right. "I am amazed. I, ah, I don't even know what to say," said Andover homeowner Janice Eden. "I don't see how that's possible." Turns out state statute allows municipalities to write the issue into city code. Andover has just that on the books. "In the years I've been an insurance agent, I've never seen it happen, but I have talked to some contractors who said it does [...]

The STAR Bonds in Derby passed 8-0 on Tuesday during Derby's City Council meeting. According to the City of Derby, the Final Phase for the STAR Bonds development consists of a family entertainment and multi-sport area that includes: A man-made public access lagoon with beach activities (scuba diving, windsurfing, snorkeling and other water sports), an aerial park, and indoor and outdoor event venues. 6-acre glamping site, offering glamorous camping on permanent platforms with amenities such as running water, plumbing, electricity, etc. A 150-room hotel offering exclusive beach access and an indoor pool. Source: KSN-TV

AT&T launched a new 911 location service Tuesday intended to improve emergency response for the public. The company says 68% of adults don't have a landline in their homes, and over 80% of 911 calls now come from mobile phones. Typically, when a call is placed to 911, the wireless phone is routed based on the closest cell tower, which can cover up to a 10-mile radius. This means that sometimes callers are transferred from one dispatch center to another when seeking help, causing delays when an emergency response is needed. Source: KSN-TV