(A) Findings. The City Council recognizes the importance of reliable high-speed internet (broadband). M.S. § 237.012 establishes goals for deployment and up- and download speeds for advanced broadband services throughout the state, which goals are supported by the city. The city makes the following findings:
(1) The existing broadband providers in and near the city do not provide adequate service to meet the needs of the businesses and residents in and around the city, and the goals of the state.
(2) Municipally owned and operated broadband service will provide a good value to users and enhance the city's image. The cost to municipal broadband service users/residents is estimated to be $19.95-$24.95/month; significantly less than private-party providers, whose costs range from $24.95-$39.95/month in addition to required phone service.
(3) The city has a desire to improve delivery of municipal services. Wireless broadband will improve efficiencies in various departments by providing mobile staff the ability to monitor infrastructure and utilities remotely through the use of in-vehicle laptop computers, including but not limited to:
(a) Public Works, Fire Department and building inspections can access GIS web-based utility mapping services to access utility locations, record drawings, permits and other property-specific information in the field;
(b) Public Works staff will have the ability to monitor and adjust levels and flows of water towers, wells, lift stations and the wastewater treatment plant.
(4) Municipally owned and operated wireless broadband service will allow the city to serve its citizens more effectively and efficiently, and bring a new level of convenience and connectedness to people who live, work and play in the city.
(5) Municipally owned and operated broadband service is anticipated to enhance economic development opportunities. The service will help the city not only retain existing businesses and residents, but will also attract new businesses and residents to the community.
(6) Municipally owned and operated broadband service introduces a new source of revenue for the city, with the potential to expand service to neighboring cities and/or townships.
(7) Based on the information gathered, the City Council hereby finds that the establishment of a broadband service is in the best interests of the city.
(B) Purpose. The purpose of this chapter is to establish a highly reliable and secure broadband service that will be municipally owned and operated, and will provide a high-speed internet network solution at an affordable cost to government agencies, residents, businesses and visitors in the region.
(Ord. 164, passed 5-2-2011)