The need and importance for fast and reliable internet is one of the things that became apparent during the pandemic. Parsons Economic Development Director Jim Zaleski says he'd like the Labette County Commission to allow him to use ARPA funds for research on getting broadband in the county.

Zaleski says the RFQ would give them an idea of what companies can provide broadband to the county and what areas of the county would be covered. The cost of the RFQ would be $150,000 and it does qualify for ARPA funds.