Council approves Lumos Fiber's citywide high-speed Internet proposal

Amherst City Council made significant strides towards enhancing local internet services during their meeting on May 19, 2025. The council discussed a proposal from Lumos Fiber to implement a citywide build-out of high-speed fiber optic internet, utilizing both pole attachments and underground directional boring.

The meeting began with procedural motions, including a unanimous vote to recuse Councilman Wnarski from participating in the discussion due to a conflict of interest. This decision was made in accordance with Rule 13, ensuring transparency and adherence to council regulations.

Following the procedural matters, representatives from Lumos Fiber, George Kemp and Steve Christen, were invited to present their plans. The proposal aims to provide residents with faster and more reliable internet access, a crucial step in today’s digital age.

Council members expressed their support for the initiative, with a motion to advance the proposal to the full council for further consideration. The motion passed unanimously, signaling strong backing for the project.

As the meeting concluded, the council emphasized the importance of improving internet infrastructure in Amherst, which is expected to enhance connectivity for residents and businesses alike. The next steps will involve further discussions and potential approval from the full council, paving the way for a more connected community.