NC S645

Authorizes North Carolina counties and cities to enter agreements with private entities to construct broadband service facilities and equipment for leasing to non-governmental lessees.

Requires county and city funding to not exceed 50% of total construction costs, with remaining funds from private entities, grants, or other unrestricted sources.

Mandates counties and cities conduct feasibility studies, adopt resolutions with 10 days' public notice, notify the Local Government Commission and State Chief Information Officer before beginning construction.

Requires voter approval through referendum before counties or cities can exercise broadband construction authority, using a standardized ballot question format.

Allows cities to lease broadband facilities for terms up to 25 years without voter approval under G.S. 160A-321, and requires competitive, nondiscriminatory bidding processes for lessee selection.