Broadband Committee Minutes
Broadband Meeting 01/16/19
Attendance - Larry Kline, B.J. Johnson, Kenn Basler, Adam Chait
Meeting called to order at 2:00 PM
Meeting moved into executive session to discuss Fiber Connect proposal
Committee reviewed maps and numbers provided by Fiber Connect.
Maps attached
questions of % signed up vs . passed
Adam has a 38-39% take rate in phase 1
Slightly higher (43-44%) in phase 2
Adam attributes difference to DSL coverage in phase 1
BJ was in touch with Verizon and was given a 96 residences receiving DSL
Ongoing issue of full time vs second home owners. Don Clausen provided the following
Total number of taxable dwellings 783
# of 2nd homes 569
# of year round residences 214
this puts Monterey at a 75% to 25% split. The committee again discussed a seasonal rate especially with the high % of part-time homes but Adam feels he cannot deviate from his current plan which makes Fiber Connect profitable at a 40% take rate.
Adam explained the relationship between HG&E and Fiber Connect and the ability of HG&G to handle service. He provided copy of contract.
Adam explained that he has relationships with a number of build-out companies that would assist him in case of major storm damage situation. The Committee would like to see those verbal agreements in writing.
- Reviewed response from Fiber Connect to questions raised at 01/06 meeting
(see attached responses from Fiber Connect)
2. Asked for information related to Monterey and were satisfied that the aggregation report provided gave an overview and was sufficient
3. Larry agreed to follow up with HG&G and come back with more information on developing a MOU. It is understood that HG&G is willing to enter into this agreement with the Town of Monterey
4. Fiber Connect provided an overview of the problem areas and will submit a list of addresses at the next meeting that fall into the 4%. Houses that for reasons of location, lack of poles, town boundaries, fall outside of the 96% commitment.
5. Clarified that what the committee was looking for was a commitment from Fiber Connect that future building projects would have access if residence passed. Cost would depend on what infrastructure available and could not be predetermined
6. Committee pushed for a seasonal rate but Fiber Connect would not agree.
Committee feels that Fiber Connect has addressed all the issues that Monterey has raised but still leaves 2 that needs further work
- MBI’s insistence that there be a 51% take rate.
2. Ability for Fiber Connect to obtain state funding
The broadband committee will meet with the select board and present the following.
The recommendation from the Broadband Committee is to turn over all our findings to the Select Board and have the Select Board begin discussions with MBI. The Broadband Committee feels that the only way to achieve 96% fiber coverage in Monterey is through a partnership between the Town and Fiber Connect.
Meeting adjourned at 4:00PM