Richland County was officially named the first “Connected” certified capital community in the United States at a ceremony Wednesday and released a technology action plan that offers steps to increase access to broadband Internet countywide.

Richland County is using a high-tech, weather monitoring network to better respond to emergency situations, and now the same network is accessible to the public through an updated website and a new mobile app.

Richland County residents can learn about improving everything from health to wealth later this month when national and local technology experts convene in Columbia to discuss the implications of expanding broadband Internet.

The following are highlights from Richland County Government in April.

Residents are encouraged to join in the new “Richland County Photo of the Week” campaign by submitting their favorite photos of people, places and events from across the County.