I'd like to revive this thread and provide an update on what I have found about the loan. The hospital is being reimbursed its payment to the ISP of up to 65% of the costs by the FCC under its "Healthcare Connect" program that subsidizes connectivity costs for hospitals in rural markets. The line Is ran through 22 tracts, 9 of which are LMI.
The hospital is the direct beneficiary, so the best way, I believe, would be to find out how many of its patients are on Medicaid. Is this information public, or do I need to contact the hospital directly?
I'm wondering since the connectivity costs are subsidized by the FCC if that makes my case for CD purpose stronger.
Also, the new Q&As provide an interesting proposition....
§ ___.12(g) – 4: Can examples of community development activities discussed in a particular Q&A also apply to other types of community development activities not specifically discussed in that Q&A if they have a similar community development purpose?
The response is yes, and you could look at the specifics in the Q&As. I wonder if this Q&A may help the CD argument for this loan since broadband internet is specifically mentioned in § ___.12(g)(4)(iii) – 4.
Kind of a lengthy response, I understand, but I am starting to believe that I should submit this loan for consideration and wanted to provide an update for feedback.
Thanks!