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Economic Development Commission Minutes May 19, 2015 Page 2 of 5 Chair Jurchen noted that some of the issues may be due to technology capabilities within the home. Mike Fynboh concurred that residential customers tend to buy less expensive I.T. equipment based on their needs and knowledge level. Matt Kilian stated that the State government needs to decide if broadband is an essential service because the market will not fix this issue. He informed the Commission about a$40 million competitive grant pool that CTC participated in and received$2 million in matching funds. The perception is that the State tends to focus on transportation and education funding, and broadband funding is not a top priority. Chair Jurchen noted that Crow Wing and Cass coin e the fastest growing areas in Minnesota and providers need to be aw. of then o.-o dband need. Sheila Haverkamp stated that Pequot Lakes might w � . to start conversations with the providers in the area. 0A, Chris Lindholm stated that the Pequot a ,Schooas access to %"s services. They currently have 100 MB and are out gi'o>" if very fast. Students are unable to hook up when they walk out the dooi Sheila Haverkamp stated that th ` ��''ersations need on alternative broadband options and it would age*, . ,a to get t chool, Landis Gyr, Breezy Point Resort,Pequot Tool,and o 24 40, on board for these discussions. 4. Building f# e Communities Co s,.Aner Ro 4'amp 4:7*. A -ti the Commission on the Arts and Economic Pr she tended in ,ittle Falls on March 2nd. Ms. Roggenkamp ,;ghlighted the``. 'portant,Sements of arts in communities such as its economic 5RO 'act, attractinople tot"area, and bridging groups of people to work to 4t' er. f 5. Seconceownes Survey The Commis .fg reviewed the University of Minnesota- Profile of Second HomeownersStudy. This was a household survey of second homeowner in eight counties in central and west central Minnesota. Chair Jurchen summarized the study and highlighted the following. • Water quality holds significant importance for second homeowners. • Internet service received the poorest ranking of amenities. • People are less attached to the communities near their second homes. • 31% of all housing units across eight counties are vacant at least part of the year. Aitkin and Cass counties exceed 45%.