We all know the lack of Broadband access to some areas in Elmore County is a real problem. I normally try to read at night before bed and my internet speed is so slow at home that I get frustrated so I have started making sure I have something in “Print” nearby. But, at least I have access to broadband because many in our county do not.
I have been working closely with ECEDA in an effort to make sure other Broadband providers know Elmore County is a great place to consider for investment, much like is done with companies in other industries. The business model of a company that provides broadband access is like any other private business, their investment must result in profit in order to stay in business. Yes, the County does enter into a Franchising agreement but basically all that does is charge a private company a percentage of their revenue for using public land (R.O.W) to install their lines. The provisions set in the franchising agreement are overwhelmingly determined by the Federal Cable Act and not your county commission.
I have posted a copy of a Wetumpka Herald article where I discussed this at a commission meeting in great detail.
With that said, I wanted to share that our efforts are starting to get the attention of other broadband providers. Conversations about the issue are taking place with other broadband providers and we have had a company talk with the Commission this week. The name of the company is Mobilitie and as it has been explained to us, they capture a commercial grade wireless data signal with a satellite and transmit it to their pole mounted antenna and rebroadcast the wireless data signal about 1-2 miles out. I have asked the Mobilitie representative to meet with myself and an ECEDA representative very soon to find out more about what they do.
I will update you as I know something.
Bart
