Vancouver City Council on June 2 held a public hearing and approved an ordinance granting a nonexclusive, revocable franchise to EZ Fiber Texas LLC to install and operate fiber-optic telecommunications facilities in the city's public rights of way.

The council approved the EZ Fiber franchise by roll call after a staff presentation; the decision follows earlier franchise agreements discussed that evening, including agreements with Ziply and Flying Bull/Novus Scribe Prime Fiber LLC. Councilors used the hearing to press staff on how fiber construction is routed through neighborhoods, whether alleyways could be used instead of front yards, and how the city enforces restoration of disturbed landscaping.

“Most of the work that they're doing involves non-open trench type work,” said Carrie, staff member, describing industry-standard directional boring and the city’s inspection process. “We really endeavor to make sure that when these things come in and then they move on, that you really don't — you won't notice that they were there in the first place.”

Ryan Lopoza, staff member, told council the utility-inspection team closely monitors construction to ensure public rights of way are restored “as good or better” than before installation. He said companies generally want to be good partners but acknowledged residents have reported obtrusive equipment left in front yards in past projects.

Councilors pressed for more information about whether franchise applicants propose maps showing where they plan to build. Carrie said providers are sometimes reluctant to publish detailed build maps because they consider them proprietary, but the city can require franchise or permit submittals that allow staff to map coverage and identify gaps.

Councilor Paulson asked whether the new entrants are focusing buildout in higher-income neighborhoods and whether the city should require broader coverage. Ryan Lopoza said Ziply has been actively constructing on the East Side and working westward; he said Ziply’s stated plan is to eventually light up the entire city. “Competition is good,” he told council. “More providers should translate to better pricing and more choices for residents.”

Several public commenters raised concerns about fiber and internet — some praising expanded options and others warning about health or social effects. Those comments included strongly worded statements that the city moderated for decorum; staff and council did not adopt those views as policy.

Councilors asked staff to: collect and map franchise and permit data to identify areas that remain underserved; report back on whether franchise agreements can lawfully require providers to prioritize coverage of underserved neighborhoods; and confirm restoration and inspection standards to prevent visible or intrusive infrastructure in private yards.

The council then voted on the EZ Fiber ordinance by roll call; the motion passed with all present councilors voting aye.

The city will retain inspection authority under the franchise terms and has requested build information from providers in order to overlay coverage maps and identify gaps for future outreach and potential partnership.