02-16-2016 EDC Meeting - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Economic Development Commission Minutes February 16, 2016 Page 2 of 4 TDS Telecom's services along with Charter Communications' services detailing download and upload speeds would be beneficial. Chair Jurchen noted that he will work on this with these companies. The following discussion ensued on the broadband services in the Pequot Lakes area. • Project developers tend to put infrastructure technology in their development documents; therefore, the necessity to pre-build the infrastructure may not be warranted. • It was noted that early on, cities who installed fiber have gone bankrupt because it is extremely expensive to put in this infrastructure. • Broadband upgrades should be a joint venture process between the fiber optic companies and project developers. • Community-wide broadband footprints and infrastructure upgrades can receive funding allocated to DEED through an application process with a 50/50 funding split. • Government subsidy systems could help the broadband needs in rural areas. • Partnerships between stakeholders such as the Blandin Foundation and Region 5 is key as the broadband issues are not a specific city issue but a regional issue. • Wireless companies should not be overlooked when addressing broadband issues as the black holes could be filled with their services. • Broadband infrastructure is becoming a combination of larger density areas within a city and smaller onsite areas. This is similar in concept of a city wastewaster system and individual septic systems. • The Commission's goal is to prepare the City to be tech ready and provide information to prospective developers that entails download and upload speed capabilities and the comparability cost for these tech services. • The concept of mini towers on existing light poles or structures to increase coverage may be something for the Planning Commission and the City Council to consider as to what is allowable for poles and towers within the City in regard to height restrictions and variances. • Strategic gathering places within the City that offer optimal WiFi services should be determined. Chair Jurchen will gather further information from TDS, Charter, and the Planning Commission to continue this discussion at the next meeting. 5. Breezy Point Resort—Guest Services Directory Book Update Nancy Malecha informed the Commission that Jenna Crawford is currently working with their marketing designer on the ad for the Breezy Point Resort Guest Services Directory and a proof will be sent to Commission members as soon as it becomes available. 6. School Update