Charter Communications, Willmar’s largest internet and cable television provider, is urging the Willmar City Council to halt its Connect Willmar Initiative, offering to build out fiber-optic service in the Industrial Park instead. This initiative started after the city sought proposals for fiber in the industrial park, leading to Hometown Fiber constructing a citywide network. Charter has launched a campaign against the initiative, targeting residents with Facebook ads and mailers warning of tax waste.
Similar tactics were used by Charter in Superior, Wisconsin, with organizations like the MacIver Institute opposing the Connect Superior project. Superior Mayor Jim Paine refuted claims of cost overruns, explaining that the estimated costs depend on the take rate of households subscribing to the network. He emphasized that users pay for the service, which can fund construction and reduce costs if more residents sign up.
During a Willmar City Council meeting, concerns were raised about providers using outdated technology, highlighting the need for fiber-optic networks for improved service. Despite opposition, Connect Superior remains under budget and expects to hit a 40% take rate. Mayor Paine emphasized the importance of adapting to modern technology to avoid facing obsolescence, referencing the decline of Kodak as an example.
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