Council pauses Go Net Speed permits after detailed buildout, equity and plan questions

The Springfield City Council on Sept. 15 voted to continue consideration of 27 Go Net Speed petitions after more than two hours of public testimony, technical questions and requests for a written commitment on citywide service. John Dullahan, a representative of Go Net Speed, told the council the company already serves customers in Springfield and that approval of the petitions would release roughly 10,000 "passings" (addresses where service could be activated) to the company if make-ready work on utility poles is resolved.

The council majority said they wanted clearer written commitments and more precise engineering plans before granting blanket approvals. "I don't wanna vote on anything unless you're making a commitment to build out the whole city," said Councilor Delgado, citing the city's digital equity work. Councilor Curran moved to continue the matter; Councilor Whitfield seconded and the motion carried. The item was continued to Oct. 6.

Why it matters: Go Net Speed's buildout would add new fiber competition to incumbent providers and could change broadband availability and…