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Council adopts ordinance setting rules for fiber-optic installations; requires yards be restored after digs
Summary
Council passed an emergency ordinance amending Chapter 929 to set requirements for new fiber-optic infrastructure. The ordinance requires companies to restore yards after excavation and codifies procedures for future installations by companies including those now proposing service.
Macedonia City Council on Jan. 23 adopted an emergency ordinance amending Chapter 929 of the codified ordinances to set rules for new fiber-optic infrastructure installations.
Director Giladi described the ordinance as a framework for companies proposing to install fiber in the city. “This is to lay out the rules for the various utility companies we anticipate will propose to install fiber utility around our city in the very near future,” Giladi said, noting multiple entities have approached the city.
Mayor Nick Molnar highlighted a customer-facing requirement residents should notice: contractors must restore yards after digging. “One thing residents will appreciate as part of this ordinance is that it says that they have to put your yard back if they dig your yard up,” Molnar said.
Council discussed that the city’s existing code was outdated and needed a clear set of expectations for companies such as Windstream that have recently approached the city about bringing fiber to neighborhoods. The ordinance was presented for first, second and third readings by title and was approved by council on a voice vote; one abstention was recorded in the meeting minutes.
Council passed the ordinance as an emergency measure so rules would be on the books as companies filed proposals. Staff advised residents who believe contractors fail to comply with the ordinance to contact city hall for assistance.
