Albuquerque Council passes moratorium on new fiber Internet installation permits

Albuquerque City Council has taken significant steps to address concerns surrounding fiber internet installation in the city. During the meeting on May 19, 2025, the council approved a resolution establishing a moratorium on new permits for fiber internet installations. This decision aims to create a working group tasked with reevaluating the permitting criteria and standards to mitigate the negative impacts of construction on residents.

The moratorium, effective September 2025, will not affect existing permits or ongoing construction projects. Councilor Champine, who sponsored the resolution, emphasized the need for improved processes to minimize disruption for residents while still supporting the expansion of fiber internet services. The working group will include representatives from various city departments and fiber internet providers, ensuring a collaborative approach to addressing community concerns.

Public comments during the meeting highlighted mixed sentiments about the fiber installation efforts. While some residents expressed frustration over construction disruptions, others praised the benefits of improved internet access. EZ Fiber, one of the companies involved, reported significant investments in the local infrastructure and committed to restoring any impacted properties promptly.

The council also discussed the importance of communication and accountability among contractors. Amendments to the resolution included provisions for requiring English-speaking contractors on-site to facilitate better communication with residents. However, this specific requirement faced scrutiny, leading to discussions about inclusivity for other languages spoken in the community.

As the city moves forward with this initiative, the council's actions reflect a commitment to balancing the need for modern infrastructure with the well-being of Albuquerque residents. The formation of the working group is seen as a crucial step in fostering dialogue and developing solutions that address the challenges posed by fiber installation projects.